i 


A 

-atechism  of  Outpost  Duty 

INCLUDfNG 

Advance  Guards,  Rear  Guards 

AND 

Reconnaissance 

BY 

ARTHUR  L.WAGNER 

PTAIN,    SIXTH   INFANTRY,    U.    S.    ARMY  ;     INSTRUCTOR   IN   ART   OF  WAR  AT  THE 
U.S.  INFANTRY   AND   CAVALRY  SCHOOL;   AUTHOR  OF    "THE  SERVICE 
OF  SECURITY  AND   INFORMATION,"    "ORGANIZATION 
AND   TACTICS,"    ETC. 

ARTHUR  WILLIAMS, 

— Capt.  3cl  Infantry, 

N  Abridgmknt,  in  the  form  of  Questions  and  Answers,  of 
"The  Service  of  Security  and  Information." 


KANSAS  CITY,  MO.  :         • 
HUDSON-KIMBBRLY  PUBIvISHING  CO. 
1014-1016  Wyandotte  Street. 


F.ntered  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1895,  by 

HUDSON-KIMBERLY  PUBIvISHING  CO.. 

In  the  Office  of  the  lyibrarian  of  Congress,  at  Washington,  D.  C. 


ARTHUR  WILLIAMS, 

Capt.  3d  Infantry, 


2223277 


1 


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PREFACE. 

The  favorable  reception  accorded  to  "The  Service  of  Secui'ity 
and  Information"  by  the  Regular  Army  and  the  National  Guard 
seems  to  render  unnecessary  any  other  preface  to  this  little  book 
than  the  statement  that  it  is  an  abridgment  of  that  work,  pre- 
sented in  a  portable  form,  and  containing  the  main  essentials  of 
the  larger  book. 

"The  Service  of  Security  and  Information"  being  a  text-book 
at  the  U.  S.  Artillery  School,  the  U.  S.  Infantry  and  Cavalry 
School,  and  the  U.  S.  Cavalry  and  Light  Artillery  School,  and 
being  officially  recognized  as  a  standard  in  the  examination  of 
officers  of  the  Army  for  promotion,  the  formations  and  methods 
herein  set  forth  may  be  accepted  as  having  the  authority  of 
official  sanction. 

The  author  desires  to  express  his  obligations  to  First  Lieu- 
tenant Rowland  G.  Hill,  20th  Infantry,  for  valuable  assistance 
in  the  preparation  of  this  abridgment. 

U.  S.  Infantry  and  Cavalry  School, 

Fort  Leavenworth,  Kansas, 

October  1,  1895. 


CONTENTS.  ,:'  ^ 

•  Page. 

PRELIMINARY  DEFINITIONS 5 

INTRODUCTION 8 

THE  ADVANCE  GUARD 9 

Strength  of  the  Advance  Guard 10 

Formation  of  the  Advance  Guard 11 

The  Vanguard -. 12 

Distance  of  the  Advance  Guard  from  the  Main  Body 15 

The  Commander  of  the  Vanguard 17 

The  Commander  of  the  Advance  G  uard 19 

Cavalry  Advance  Guards 20 

OUTPOSTS 24 

Subdivisions  of  the  Outpost 26 

Distances  between  the  Several  L,ines  of  the  Outpost 26 

Two  Systems  of  Outposts 27 

Position  for  Outposts 28 

Strength  of  the  Outpost 29 

Composition  of  the  Outpost 30 

Distance  of  Outposts  from  the  Main  Body 85 

The  Commander  of  the  Outpost 36 

Sentinels  and' Vedettes 39 

Examining  Posts 44 

Detached  Posts 44 

Pickets .'45 

The  Supports  49 

Cossack  Posts 50 

The  Reserve 52 

The  Outpost  at  Night 54 

Outjjost  Patrols 57 

Posting  the  Outpost 60 

The  Defence  of  the  Outpost 63 

Relieving  the  Outpost 65 

RECONNAISSANCE 66 

Special  Reconnaissance 68 

Patrolling 69 

Small  Infantry  Patrols 73 

Strong  Infantry  Patrols 93 

Expeditionary  Patrols 94 

Harassing  Patrols 97 

Flank  Patrols 98 

The  Advance  Guard  Passing  through  a  Town 99 

Cavalry  Patrols 100 

Officers'  Patrols 105 

REAR  GUARDS 106 

Strength  of  the  Rear  Guard ; 107 

The  Commander  of  the  Rear  Guard 108 

Formation  of  the  Rear  Guard 109 

The  Intermediate  Body 117 

Defence  of  Defiles '. . . .  .119 

Negative  Measures 120 

The  Rear  Guard  in  a  Forward  March 125 

APPENDIX  I.,  THE  CAVALRY  SCREEN 125 

APPENDIX  II.,  ADVANCE  GUARD  DRILL 127 


PRELIMINARY  DEFINITIONS. 

A6a^is— Rows  of  felled  trees,  with  the  smaller  branches  lopped 
off,  and  the  others  sharpened  and  turned  towards  the 
enemy. 

Z?(xse— "A  base  of  operations  is  the  portion  of  country  from 
which  the  army  obtains  its  reinforcements  and  resources, 
from  which  it  starts  when  it  takes  the  offensive,  to  which 
it  retreats  when  necessary,  and  by  which  it  is  supported 
when  it  takes  position  to  cover  the  country  defensively. 
The  base  of  operations  is  most  generally  that  of  supply- 
though  not  necessarily  so,  at  least  as  far  as  food  is  con- 
cerned."— Jomini. 

Billet— Qusivters  provided  for  troops  in  private  houses,  barns, 
etc.  Soldiers  biUeted  generally  obtain  from  the  inhabit- 
ants food  and  drink  for  themselves  and  forage  for  their 
horses;  payment  for  these  supplies  being  usually  made  at 
the  rates  and  in  the  manner  prescribed  in  regulations  and 
orders. 

Bivouac— A  temporary  place  of  repose  for  troops,  in  which  they 
are  sheltered  by  shelter-tents,  bowers,  or  improvised  shel- 
ter of  any  kind,  or  sleep  in  the  open  air.  A  camp  differs 
from  a  bivouac,  in  that  the  men  are  sheltered  with  regular 
tents.  Troops  are  cantoned  when  sheltered  in  huts  or  bil- 
leted in  villages. 

Communications— The  routes  (roads,  railroads,  etc.)  by  which  an 
army  communicates  with  its  base,  or  by  which  the  sevc-al 
parts  of  an  army  communicate  with  each  other. 


6  UATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

Complwie7its— Ceremonious  marks  of  respect  paid  by  officers  and 
soldiers  to  tlieir  military  superiors;  such  as  saluting,  stand- 
ing at  attention,  etc. 

Containing  Force— A.  body  of  troops  charged  with  the  duty  of 
holding  in  check  a  body  (generally  numerically  superior) 
of  the  enemy,  while  the  main  efforts  of  the  army  are  di- 
rected against  anotlier  portion  of  the  hostile  force. 

Deptli^-TXie  space  occupied  by  a  body  of  troops  from  front  to 
rear. 

Distance—The  space  between  bodies  of  troops,  or  individual  sol- 
diers, from  front  to  rear. 

Escort  Wa(;o?i — A  four-horse  wagon,  lighter  than  the  "army 
wagon." 

Fro7it— The  extent  of  ground  occupied  by  the  front  rank  of  a 
body  of  troops  in  any  formation. 

Glacis— A  mound  of  earth,  with  a  gentle  slope,  thrown  up  a  few 
yards  in  front  of  the  ditch  of  a  fortification. 

Inipedimenta—Bi\fi:ga}ie,  and,  in  general,  anything  accompanying 
troops,  whicli  tends  to  impede  the  celerity  of  their  move- 
ment. 

Interval — The  latei-al  space  between  bodies  of  troops  or  individ- 
ual soldiers. 

Moral — The  condition  of  troops  as  to  discipline,  bravery,  confi- 
dence, or  discouragement,  etc. 

Provost-Guards  A  guard  under  the  orders  of  a  provost-marshal. 

P rovost-3f arsTial— An  officer  attached  to  the  headquarters  of  the 
commanding  general  to  superintend  the  police  of  the  army; 
to  provide  for  the  protection  of  the  inhabitants  "of  the  coun- 
try from  pillage  and  violence;  to  preserve  order  among 
camp-followers;  to  take  charge  of  stragglers,  prisoners, 
and  deserters;  and  to  superintend  the  secret  service. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  7 

Shrapnel— Called  the  "man-killing  projectile."  A  shell  filled 
with  bnllets,  and  having  a  bui-sting  charge  only  sufficient 
to  break  the  case  and  release  the  bullets,  which  then  move 
forward  with  the  velocity  which  the  projectile  had  at  the 
moment  of  bursting. 

Stratc(/!j— The  art  of  moving  an  army  in  the  theater  of  opera- 
tions with  a  view  to  placing  it  in  such  a  .position  relative 
to  the  enemy  as  to  increase  the  probability  of  victory,  in- 
crease the  consequences  of  victory,  or  lessen  the  conse- 
quences of  defeat. 

Tactics— The  art  of  handling  troops  on  the  field  of  battle. 

Terrain— The  topography  of  a  field,  considered  especially  in  its 
relation  to  tactical  operations. 

Theater  of  TTflr— "The  theater  of  war  comprises  all  the  territory 
upon  which  the  parties  may  assail  each  other,  whether  it 
belong  to  themselves,  their  allies,  or  to  weaker  states  who 
may  be  drawn  into  the  war  through  fear  or  interest.  When 
the  war  is  also  maritime,  the  theater  may  embrace  both 
hemispheres.  *  *  *  The  theater  of  war  may  thus  be  un- 
defined, and  must  not  be  confounded  with  the  theater  of 
operations  of  one  or  the  other  avmj."—Jomitu. 

Theater  of  Opcrations—''The  theater  of  operations  of  an  army 
embraces  all  the  territory  it  may  desire  to  invade,  and  all 
that  it  may  be  necessary  to  defend."— /6Jd 

yedette—A  mounted  sentinel. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 


INTRODUCTION. 

Q.  What  would  be  the  effect  if  the  entire  army  were  kept 
constantly  on  the  alert? 

A.  Its  surprise  would  be  impossible,  but  it  would  be  ruined 
by  physical  hardship.  To  guard  against  surprise  without  mak- 
ing undue  demands  upon  the  endurance  of  the  soldiers,  use  is 
made  of  covering  detachments,  which  should  be  strong  enough 
to  hold  the  euemy  while  the  main  body  is  preparing  for  action. 

Q.  How  is  the  security  of  an  army  provided  for  on  the  march, 
and  at  a  halt? 

A.  On  the  march  the  secm*ity  of  the  army  is  provided  for 
by  advance  guards,  rear  guards,  and  flanking  detachments;  at 
a  halt  a  chain  of  outposts  protects  it  from  surprise. 

Q.  The  information  necessary  for  a  commander  is  of  what 
two  kinds? 

A.  1.  That  relating  to  the  geography,  topography,  and  re- 
sources of  the  theater  of  operations. 

2.  That  which  relates  to  the  strength  and  composition  of 
the  enemy's  forces,  and  their  position,  movements,  and  moral. 

Q.    How  are  these  two  kinds  of  information  obtained? 

A.  Among  military  nations,  the  first  kind  of  information  is 
now  generally  obtained  in  time  of  peace. 

The  second  class  of  information  is  gained  in  two  ways: 

1.  From  spies,  deserters,  prisoners,  newspapers,  etc- 

2.  By  reconnaissance. 

To  gain  reliable  information  of  the  enemy,  contact  with  him 
should  be  quickly  gained  n^d  never  lost. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY 


THE  ADVANCE  GUARD. 

Q.  Wliat  would  be  the  effect  if  troops  moving  in  one  -body 
should  come  suddenly  upon  the  enemy  ? 

A.  They  would  certainly  be  thrown  into  confusion,  and  per- 
haps defeated,  before  deployment  for  action  could  be  effected. 
Moreover,  insignificant  bodies  of  the  enemy  could  seriously  de- 
lay the  march  of  the  column  by  causing  it  to  halt  and  deploy  for 
action. 

Q.  How  is  a  column  of  troops  on  the  march,  therefore, 
divided  ? 

A.  Into  a  main  body,  an  advance  guard,  a  rea?'  guard,  and 
such  Hanking  parties  as  may  be  necessary. 

Q.  What,  in  general  terms,  are  the  objects  of  the  advance 
guard? 

A.    To  observe  and  resist  the  enemy. 

Q.    What  are  the  specific  objects  of  the  advance  guard? 

A.  1.  To  provide  for  the  security  of  the  main  body  by  giving 
it  time  for  deployment  when  the  enemy  is  encountered. 

2.  To  clear  the  way  for  the  main  body  and  j)revent  its 
march  from  being  delayed. 

3.  To  seize  and  hold  important  points  until  the  arrival  of  the 
main  body. 

4.  To  support  the  reconnoitering  cavalry,  and  afford  a  rally- 
ing-point  for  it  in  case  it  is  driven  in  by  the  enemy.  Even  when 
a  cavah'y  screen  is  operating  in  front  of  the  advance  guard,  the 
latter  should  not  relax  its  vigilance.  The  cavalry  may  be  driven 
in,  and  the  advance  guard  must  then  check  the  enemy.  On  ad- 
vance the  security  of  the  column  must,  therefore,  depend  essen- 
tially upon  the  advance  guard. 

(For  a  description  of  the  cavalry  screen,  see  Appendix  I.) 


10  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 


•    Strength  of  the  Advance  Guard. 

Q.  How  does  the  proportionate  strength  of  the  advance 
guard  vary  ? 

A.  No  absolute  iTile  for  the  strength  of  the  advance  guard 
can  be  given,  but  it  varies  with  tlie  size  of  tlie  main  body,  the 
object  of  the  march,  the  topography  of  the  country,  and  the 
nature  of  the  enemy.  In  a  close,  rugged,  country  and  against 
an  enemy  inferior  in  numbers  and  moral,  it  should  be  less  tlian 
in  an  open  country,  against  a  strong,  aggressive  enemy,  or  when 
the  intention  is  to  bring  on  a  decisive  engagement.  With  a 
large  force  the  proportionate  strength  of  the  advance  guard  is 
larger  tlian  in  tlie  case  of  a  small  colunm. 

Q.  What  is  the  danger  in  having  the  advance  guard  too 
weak,  or  too  strong? 

A.  If  too  weak,  it  can  not  fulfill  its  proper  functions;  if  too 
strong,  there  will  be  a  hurtful  waste  of  energy,  for  service  with 
the  advance  guard  is  much  more  fatiguing  and  exhausting  than 
marching  Avith  the  main  colunm.  ^Moreover,  a  strong  advance 
guard  has  a  tendency  to  engage  an  enemy  seriously,  even  when 
its  duty  requires  that  it  should  merely  fight  a  delaying  action  to 
gain  time  tot  the  main  body. 

Q.  As  a  rule,  w^hat  portion  of  the  entire  force  is  assigned 
to  the  advance  guard  and  to  the  rear  guard  on  advance— and 
what  on  a  retrograde  movement? 

A.  As  a  general  rule  (subject,  however,  to  a  multitude  of  ex- 
ceptions), we  may  assume  the  strength  of  the  advance  guard  to 
be  one-sixth  of  the  whole  force,  and  the  rear  guard  to  be  half  as 
strong  as  the  advance  guard.  On  a  retrogade  movement  the 
relative  strength  of  the  advance  and  rear  guards  Tvould  be 
reversed.  As  the  flanking  parties  are  taken  from  the  advance 
and  rear  guards,  except  in  the  case  of  very  large  forces,  when 
they  would  be  separate  bodies  of  a  strength  according  to^cir- 


GATECHliiM   OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  11 

cumstauces.we  have  about  a  foui'th  of  the  whole  force  on  duty 
with  the  eoveriug  d^tachmeuts  on  the  march. 

Q.  With  a  small  force,  why  may  the  proportionate  strength 
o*f  the  advance  guard  be  less  than  with  a  large  one? 

A.  The  time  required  for  the  deployment  of  a  large  column 
(such,  for  instance,  as  an  army  corps)  being  much  greater  than 
in  the  case  of  a  small  force,  the  delaying  action  of  the  advance 
guard  must  be  much  longer,  and  its  strength  much  greater; 
therefore  with  a  small  force  the  advance  guard  might  often  be 
reduced  to  one-eighth,  or  even  one- tenth,  of  the  whole. 

Formation  of  the  Advance  Gnard. 

Q.  AVhat  is  the  object  of  each  of  the  constituent  detach- 
ments of  the  advance  guard  ? 

A.  The  object  of  each  detachment  is  to  guard  against  sur- 
prise the  stronger  body  which  follows  immediately  in  its  rear, 
and  give  the  latter  time  to  prepare  for  attack. 

Q.  Into  what  two  parts  is  the  advance  guard  primarily 
divided,  and  what  is  the  strength  of  each? 

A.  Into  the  reserve  and  the  vanguard.  The  reserve  consists 
of  from  one-third  to  one-half  of  the  entire  advance  guard.  The 
remainder  constitutes  the  vanguard. 

Q.  Into  what  two  parts  is  the  vanguard  divided,  and  what 
is  their  relative  strength? 

A.  Into  the  advance  party  and  the  support,  the  latter  being 
generally  twice  as  strong  as  the  former. 

Q.    How  are  these  proportions  varied? 

A.  In  large  advance  guards  this  proportion  is  often  differ- 
ent; the  support,  relatively  to  the  advance  party,  and  the  re- 
serve, relatively  to  the  vanguard,  being  considerably  greater. 
These  proportions  are,  moreover,  varied  according  to  the  most 
convenient  subdivisions  of  the  organizations  composing  the  ad- 


12  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

vance  guard.    They  may  be  regarded  as  suitable  in  most  cases. 
(For  a  typical  formation  of  a  company  of  infantry  as  an 
advance  guard,  see  Plate  I.) 


The  Vanguard. 

Q.  What  "may  be  given  as  a  typical  formation  for  the  ad- 
vance ptirty  when  the  advance  guard  consists  of  a  company? 

A.  The  advance  party,  consisting  of  one  section,  throw^s 
forward  a  "point"  consisting  of  three  or  fom*  men  under  a  non- 
commissioned officer.  On  each  side  a  flanking  group  of  four 
men  marches  about  150  yards  from  the  main  route  to  the  right 
and  left  rear  respectively  of  the  point.  Each  flanking  group 
should  be  under  a  corporal  or  old  soldier,  and  would  habitually 
march  with  two  men  in  front  and  one  in  rear  of  the  group-leader, 
though  the  formation  adopted  would  depend  upon  circum- 
stances. The  rest  of  the  advance  party  follows  100  yards  in 
rear  of  the  point. 

Q.    How  is  the  support  formed,  and  how  does  it  march? 

A.  The  support  (one  section)  follows  the  advance  party  at  a 
distance  of  200  yards,  throwing  out  two  flanking  gi'oups  of  four 
men  each  to  its  right  and  left  front,  and  somewhat  farther  out 
than  the  flankers  of  the  advance  party.  These  groups  can  safely 
move  farther  out  than  those  of  the  advance  party,  thus  extending 
the  field  of  view;  while  each  can,  if  necessary,  protect  by  its  fire 
the  outer  flank  of  the  group  in  front.  A  connecting  file,  de- 
tached from  the  advance  party,  marches  between  the  advance 
party  and  the  support  to  aid  in  the  transmission  of  intelligence 
from  one  to  the  other. 

Q.    How  is  the  reserve  formed,  and  how  does  it  march? 

A.  The  reserve  marches  about  500  yards  in  rear  of  the 
.•support,  a  connecting  file  ma;'ching  between  them.    The  reserve 


PLATE  I. 
COMPANY  OF  INFANTRY  AS  ADVANCE  GUARD 


FLANKERS  *.,,J??I.''A.;^-'5°JCPf...,^    FLANKERS 

•     "'■•-.    2;        .--■''     • 

1  section"  "t*'  ADVANCE  PARTY. 

Ij 
FLANKERS  J!.,.^  8|  _...VfLANKERS 

•        '*"*'--,.     i     ....-- —       • 

1  SECTION '•f'' SUPPORT 


Main  body 


4  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

may  throw  flanking  groups  to  the  front  or  to  the  front  and  rear, 
the  groups  being  slightly  farther  out  than  those  of  the  support. 
The  flankers  from  the  reserve  can  generally  be  dispensed  with, 
and  should  be  thrown  out  only  when  reasonable  prudence  re- 
quires them;  for,  as  a  rule,  the  reserve  should  be  kept  entire 
and  well  in  hand. 

Q.    Where  does  the  main  body  march? 

A.  The  main  body  follows  the  reserve  at  500  yards,  one  or 
two  connecting  files  marching  between  the  two  bodies. 

Q.    Are  the  distances  (as  given  above)  invariable? 

A.  No,  they  are  variable;  but  those  from  the  support  to  the 
reserve,  and  from  the  reserve  to  the  main  body,  can  not  piTi- 
dently  be  made  more  than  600  or  800  yards,  respectively,  in  the 
case  of  so  small  a  force  as  the  one  considered.  In  the  case  of  a 
single  company  acting  as  an  advance  guard,  the  rule  for  the  pro- 
portionate strength  of  the  advance  party  and  the  support  is 
necessarily  modified  to  accord  with  the  most  convenient  sub- 
divisions of  the  company. 

Q.  If  the  nature  of  the  country  is  such  as  to  render  the  use 
of  flanking  groups  impracticable,  what  is  done? 

A.  Both  tlie  advance  party  and  the*support  move  forward 
entire,  with  the  exception  that  the  advance  party  is  always  pre- 
ceded by  a  point. 

Q.  When  marching  in  an  open  country,  how  may  the  ad- 
vance guard  be  formed? 

A.  It  may  be  deployed  as  skirmishers,  with  considerable 
intervals,  the  support  following  in  line  of  squads.  Both  Hues 
may  be  straight  or  echeloned  back  sliglitly  from  the  center  to- 
ward the  flanks.  The  reserve  should  ordinarily  be  kept  in 
column. 

Q.  As  another  typical  case,  take  a  force  of  two  battalions 
acting  as  advance  guard  for  a  brigade;  how  should  this  advance 
guard  be  formed  ? 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  15 

A.  Tlie  advance  party  may  consist  of  one  company;  the 
support,  of  three  campanies;  and  the  reserve,  of  one  battalion. 
The  distances  may  be  as  follows :  From  point  to  advance  party, 
150  yards ;  from  advance  party  to  support,  200  yards ;  from  sup- 
port to  reserve,  GOO  yards;  from  reserve  to  main  body,  800  yards. 
(See  Plate  II.) 

Distance  of  Advance  Guard  from  Main  Body. 

Q.  What  might  result  if  the  distance  of  the  advance  guard 
from  the  main  body  were  too  great?  and  what,  if  it  were  too 
small? 

A.  If  the  distance  were  too  great,  the  advance  guard  might 
be  forced  into  a  heavy  engagement  while  beyond  the  assistance 
of  the  main  body,  and  might  even  be  entirely  cut  off  by  an  attack 
upon  its  flank  and  rear.  If,  on  the  other  hand,  the  distance  were 
not  great  enough,  time  could  not  be  afforded  for  the  preparation 
of  the  main  body  for  action. 

Q.  Give  the  "rough  rule"  which  will  answer  in  most  cases 
for  determining  the  distance  of  the  advance  guard  from  the  main 
body. 

A,  A  rough  rule  is,  that  the  minimum  distance  should  be 
equal  to  the  depth  of  the  main  body;  as  the  time  required  for 
the  rear  troops  to  deploy  on  the  head  of  the  column  would  not  be 
greater  than  that  taken  by  the  advance  guard  in  falling  back. 

Q,  When  a  large  force  is  acting  with  energy  and  aggressive- 
ness for  the  purpose  of  bringing  on  a  battle,  what  is  the  rule? 

A.  The  main  body  must  be  drawn  nearer  to  the  advance 
guard,  as  the  latter  mnst  be  promptly  supported. 

Q.  How  do  the  nature  of  the  country  and  state  of  the 
weather  affect  this  distance? 

A.  If  the  country  is  full  of  defensive  positions,  such  as  to 
admit  of  ^  sturdy  delaying  action  on  the  part  of  the  advance 


PL  A  TE  II. 
TWO  BATTALIONS  AS  ADVANCE  GUARD 

OF  BRIGADE 

•  • 

•  •  S  •  • 

*„.,160  .-♦—150-:* 

•  •"">.,     I      /'•  • 

1  COMPANy'^-P' ADVANCE  PARTY 


:. — -? 

8  COMPANIES  S! 


i--" 


I  BATTALION   ■  ReSERVE 


MAIN  BODY 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  17 

guard,  the  distance  may  be  decreased.  In  foggy  weather,  or  at 
night,  or  during  a  storm  of  rain  or  snow,  the  distance  should  be 
decreased,  as  well  as  the  front  covered  by  the  scouting  groups  or 
Hanking  parties.  If,  on  the  other  hand,  the  country  is  open,  the 
weather  clear,  and  there  is  danger  of  the  advance  gTiard  being 
driven  back,  the  distance  must  be  increased. 

Q.  What  important  fact  must  be  constantly  considered  in 
regard  to  the  vanguard  and  the  reserve? 

A.  That  the  vanguard  is  the  rcconnoiter'DKj  part,  and  the  re- 
serve essentially  the  fightinfj  part,  of  the  advance  guard.  The 
reserve  is  therefore  the  first  body  that  really  demands  time  for 
deplojnnent. 

The  Coimnandcr  of   the   Vanguard. 

Q.  By  whom  is  the  vanguard  commanded,  and  where 
should  he  march? 

A.  The  vanguard  sliould  always  be  commanded  by  an  offi- 
cer, who  should  be  mounted,  if  possible,  and  furnished  with  a 
detailed  map  of  the  region  through  which  the  force  is  marching. 
He  habitually  marches  with  the  support,  but  goes  to^ny  part  of 
the  vanguard  where  his  presence  may  be  necessary.  He  may 
take  immediate  command  of  the  advance  party,  if  it  seems  ad- 
visable to  do  so,  leaving  the  support  under  the  immediate  com- 
mand of  the  officer  or  non-commissioned  officer  next  in  rank.  If 
guides  are  present,  they  should  accompany  the  support  and  be 
under  the  orders  of  the  commander  of  the  vanguard. 

Q.    Describe  the  duties  of  the  commander  of  the  van^ard. 

A.    It  is  the  duty  of  the  commander  of  the  vanguard: 

1.  To  see  that  the  proper  road. is  taken  by  the  point. 

2.  When  cross-roads  are  passed,  to  see  that  a  man  is  left  to 
guide  the  main  column. 

3.  To  send  out  special  patrols  to  examine  all  ground  that 


18  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

might  afford  shelter  to  the  enemy,  such  as  woods,  farm-houses, 
hamlets,  etc. 

4.  To  send  out  special  patrols  to  watch  and  oppose  any  hos- 
tile patrols  that  may  be  seen,  or  whose  presence  may  be  sus- 
pected. 

5.  To  cause  necessary  repairs  to  be  made  in  roads,  bridges, 
approaches  to  fords,  etc. 

G.  To  transmit  promptly  to  the  commanding  officer  of  the 
advance  guard  all  information  tliat  lie  may  gain  about  the  ene- 
my, first  testing  its  accuracy  as  far  as  possible,  but  being  care- 
ful not  to  delay  the  transmission  of  important  news  to  the 
commander. 

7,  To  see  that  the  march  of  the  column  is  not,  under  any 
circumstances,  unnecessarily  delayed. 

Q.    How  are  losses  in  the  advance  party  replaced? 

A.  The  support  rejilaces  any  men  of  the  advance  party  who 
may  be  relieved  or  placed  hors  dc  combat.  When  a  scout  of  the 
advance  party  brings  in  important  information,  he  should,  if 
practicable,  be  sent  to  the  commander  of  the  advance  guard. 
Plis  place  with  the  advance  party  is  at  once  supplied  from  the 
support.  He  is  retained  with  the  reserve,  from  which  another 
man  is  sent  forward  to  the  support.  The  number  of  men  with 
the  point  and  flankers  should,  if  possible,  remain  unchanged; 
but  they  shoidd  be  frequently  relieved,  as  the  duty  is  very  fatigu- 
ing. When  there  are  particular  reasons  for  sending  the  man 
back  to  his  former  post,  the  man  who  replaced  him  should  be 
returned. 

Q.  In  a  command  of  considerable  size,  who  is  charged  with 
the  duty  of  selecting  a  camp  or  bivouac  for  the  main  body? 

A.  A  staff  officer,  who  usually  accompanies  the  vanguard, 
is  charged  with  the  duty  of  selecting  a  camp  or  bivouac  for 
the  main  body.  When  he  has  selected  the  place,  he  remains 
there,  with  such  a  detail  as  may  be  necessary,  until  the  arrival 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  19 

of  the  main  body,  the  advance  ^uard  marching  on  and  forming 
the  outpost,  at  least  temporarily. 

The  Commander  of  the  Advance  Guard. 

Q.    Where  does  the  commander  of  the  advance  guard  march? 

A.  He  is  generally  with  the  reserve;  but,  on  approaching 
the  enemy,  should  go  wherever  his  presence  is  most  needed. 
He  should  always  be  mounted,  if  practicable,  even  in  the  case 
of  a  small  advance  guard. 

Q.  AVhat  qualities  does  the  commander  of  the  advance 
guard  need,  and  why  ? 

A.  Courage,  self-reliance,  and  good  judgment.  A  timid 
officer  in  command  of  an  advance  guard  would  suffer  the  col- 
umn to  be  delayed  by  small  parties  of  the  enemy;  a  rash  one 
would  plunge  into  combat,  and  might  thus  impose  upon  his 
superior  a  com-se  of  action  at  total  variance  with  his  plans. 
Small  parties  of  the  enemy  should  always  be  quiclily  driven 
baclv.  On  the  other  hand,  an  engagement  should  generally  be 
avoided,  unless  the  commander  of  the  advance  guard  has  orders 
to  touch  upon  the  enemy  and  bring  him  to  a  stand  at  all  hazards. 

Q.  What  should  the  commander  of  the  advance  guard  con- 
tinually consider,  and  what,  in  general,  should  he  do? 

A.  He  should  continually  consider  the  measures  necessary 
for  tlie  security  of  the  march,  and  for  rapidly  gaining  reliable 
information  of  the  enemy.  He  should  carefully  observe  the 
ground,  and  consider  the  tactical  use  that  might  be  made  of  it, 
and  should  have  a  clear  idea  as  to  what  he  intends  to  do  in  case 
the  enemy  is  encountered. 

Q.    What  is  done  when  the  advance  guard  halts? 

A.  All  approaches  should  be  reconnoitered  and  guarded, 
and  an  officer  should  be  sent  to  get  an  extended  view  from  the 
higliest  available  point. 


20  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

Q.  How  is  information  conveyed  from  one  part  of  the  ad- 
vance guard  to  another  ?  -^• 

A.  By  some  code  of  signals.  Shouting  and  unnecessary  fir- 
ing should  be  carefully  avoided.  The  point  and  flankers  fire 
only  when  they  are  certain  that  they  have  heen  seen  by  the  ene 
my  and  that  he  is  not  retiring. 

Q.    What  compliments  are  rendered  by  advance  guards? 

A.    None  whatever. 


Cavalry  Advance  Guards. 

Q.  How  does  a  cavalry  advance  guard  compare  with  one 
composed  of  infantry  ? 

A.  It  is  similar  in  its  formation,  except  that  the  distances 
and  intervals  are  greater. 

Q.    How  is  a  troop  of  cavalry  formed  as  an  advance  guard? 

A.  If  the  troop  consists  of  bat  two  platoons,  the  first  consti- 
tutes the  vanguard,  and  the  second  the  reserve.  If  there  are 
three  platoons,  the  first  and  second  compose  the  vanguard,  and 
the  third  the  reserve.  When  there  are  fom'  platoons,  the  first 
and  second  form  the  vanguard,  and  the  third  and  fourth  the  re- 
serve. The  point  consists  of  foiu-  troopers.  The  flanking 
groups,  each  consisting  of  four  troopers,  march  about  100  yards 
in  rear  of  the  point,  and  from  300  to  500  yards  from  the  line  of 
march.  The  advance  party  consists  of  the  point  and  flankers, 
and  is  under  command  of  a  sergeant,  who  is  generally  witli  the 
point.  In  some  cases  the  comniander  of  the  advance  party  may 
reduce  the  point  to  two  troopers,  holding  the  other  two  in  rear 
of  the  point  and  abreast  of  the  flankers,  or  he  may  march 
in  this  position  himself  without  reducing  the  point.  He  should 
be  where  he  can  best  control  the  reconnaissance  of  the  advance 
party.    The  flanking  groups  are  each  commanded  by  a  corporal 


CATECHIISM  OB'  OUTPOST  DUTY.  21 

or  tiu  old  soldier.  The  groups  may  be  kept  together  in  any  suit- 
able formation,  or  distributed  along  the  front  so  as  to  make  an 
arc  of  scouts  from  one  extreme  flanker,  through  the  point,  to  the 
other  extreme  flanker. 

The  support  follows  the  point  at  a  distance  of  500  yards,  a 
flanking  group  of  from  four  to  eight  men  being  sent  out  on  each 
flank  about  half  a  mile  from  the  column  and  slightly  in  advance 
of  the  reserve.  In  an  enclosed  country  these  groups  would  march 
on  the  nearest  roads  parallel  to  the  one  taken  by  the  main  col- 
umn, and  should  keep  up  communication  with  the  advance 
guard. 

The  reserve  follows  the  support  at  a  distance  of  TOO  yards. 
As  a  rule,  it  is  kept  entire;  but,  if  necessary,  flanking  parties 
may  be  thrown  out  in  such  a  manner  and  to  such  distances  as 
circumstances  may  require,    (See  Plate  III.) 

Q.  When  the  advance  guard  consists  of  two  troops  of  cav- 
alry, how  may  it  be  formed  ? 

A.  The  first  troop  may  constitute  the  vanguard,  and  the  sec- 
ond the  reserve.  In  this  case  the  advance  party  consists  of  a 
half -platoon,  if  there  are  but  two  platoons  in  the  troop;  or  a 
platoon,  if  the  troop  contains  three  or  four. 

The  members  of  the  advance  party  not  employed  as  point 
and  flankers  form  a  center  group,  which  marches  in  rear  of  the 
point  and  abreast  of  the  flankers. 

Q.  What  would  be  the  composition  of  the  advance  party  in" 
a  very  large  advance  guard? 

A.  It  would  consist  of  an  entire  troop,  and  it,  instead  of  the 
support,  would  furnish  the  flanking  patrols. 

Q.  Why  are  the  distances  and  intervals  greater  in  the  case 
of  a  cavalry  advance  guard  than  in  one  composed  of  infantry? 

A.  Cavalry  possessing  much  greater  mobility  than  infantry, 
the  different  covering  troops  can  be  safely  separated  from  each 
other  by  greater  distances  in  the  former  than  in  the  latter  arm. 


PLATE  III. 
TROOP  OF  CAVALRY  AS  ADVANCE  GUARD 


«*-      500      YDS     ■-*♦*-•■  SCO      YOS---*^ 

i  ADVANCE  PARTY  t. 


JMILE     


*   MILE. 


CATECHTSM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  23 

Moreover,  the  resisting  power  of  cavalry  is  less  than  that  of  in- 
fantry, and  when  a  cavalry  advance  guard  is  driven  in  by  the 
enemy,  the  ground  is  passed  over  more  rapidly  in  retreat  than 
in  the  case  of  a  corresponding  infantry  force.  Hence,  in  order  to 
give  each  successive  body  in  rear  time  to  prepare  for  action,  the 
distances  must  necessarily  be  greater  for  cavalry. 

Q.    Why  should  an  advance  guard  be  composed  of  all  arms  V 

A.  Because  reconnoitering  duty  can  be  performed  more 
efficiently  and  more  easily  by  cavalry  than  by  infantry;  be- 
cause infantry  has  more  resisting  power  than  the  cavalry;  and 
because  artillery  is  of  great  value  in  preparing  the  way  for  the 
advance  guard  and  in  compelling  the  enemy  to  deploy  at  a 
distance. 

Q.  How  would  the  different  arms  be  distributed  in  the  ad- 
vance guard? 

A.  The  cavalry  would  constitute  the  vanguard,  and  the  in- 
fantry the  reserve.  The  artillery  would  habitually  be  with  the 
reserve,  though  in  some  cases  a  few  guns  might  march  with  the 
support. 

Q.    How  are  engineers  used  with  the  advance  guard? 

A.  A  few  engineers  should  march  with  the  support,  to  re- 
pair bridges,  remove  obstacles,  etc.  If  the  rest  of  the  support 
consists  entirely  of  cavalry,  the  engineers  should  be  mounted. 

Q.  Upon  what  does  the  proportion  of  each  arm  with  the  ad- 
vance guard  depend,  and  when  is  each  preferable? 

A.  It  depends  upon  the  nature  of  the  country,  the  object  of 
the  march,  and  the  strength,  composition,  and  proximity  of  the 
enemy.  In  close  or  mountainous  country,  the  proportion  of  in- 
fantry should  be  increased.  In  an  open  country  the  cavalry 
should  be  strengthened.  If  the  enemy  is  strong  nn#near,  and  a 
battle  seems  imminent,  the  advance  guard  should  be  very  strong 
in  infantry  and  guns.  If,  however,  it  is  desired  merely  to  de- 
the  enemy  without  seriously  engaging,  the  advance  guard 


24  CATECniSAI  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

should  consist  of  cavalry  and  light  artillery  (horse  artillery,  if 
possible),  as  these  troops  can  be  more  readily  withdrawn  than 
infantry.  In  the  pursuit  of  a  beaten  foe,  or  whenever  the  ob- 
ject is  to  follow  and  keep  touch  with  the  enemy,  the  proportion 
of  cavalry  shoidd  be  as  great  as  possible. 

Q.  What  should  be  done  by  tlie  advance  guard  when  the 
enemy  is  encountered  ? 

A.  As  soon  as  the  enemy  is  seen,  the  advance  guard  must 
endeavor  to  ascertain  promptly  whether  it  has  to  deal  with  an 
outpost  of  a  stationary  force,  an  advance  guard  of  a  marching 
body,  or  a  flanlving  detachment  of  a  column.  It  should  lose  no 
time  in  discovering  where  the  enemy's  main  position  is,  or  how 
far  away  is  the  marching  colui¥in.  The  relative  numbers  and 
position  and  tlie  orders  under  which  the  advance  guard  is  acting 
will  decide  the  question  of  nttacking  or  taking  up  a  defensive  po- 
sition. The  offensive  is  generally  the  best  if  an  attack  seems  at 
all  likely  to  succeed.  If  between  the  advance  guard  and  the 
enemy  there  is  an  exceptionally  good  position,  the  enemy  should 
be  attacked  vigorously,  in  order  that  the  position  may  be  occu- 
pied and  held  for  the  deployment  of  the  main  body.  If  the  de- 
fensive has  been  decided  upon,  and  a  good  defensive  position  has 
been  passed  a  short  time  before  the  enemy  is  encountered, 
or  if  the  latter  is  in  such  force  that  the  advance  guard  can 
not  hold  its  oavu  against  him,  it  will  be  necessary  to  fall  back 
slowly  and  stubbornly  to  the  position  or  upon  the  main  body; 
the  commander  of  the  advance  guard  sending  to  the  commander 
of  the  main  body  prompt  warning  of  tlie  threatened  or  actual 
attack, 

(For  the  drill  in  forming  advance  guard,  see  Appendix  II.) 

OUTPOSTS. 
Q.    What  are  outposts,   and   with   what   duties   are  they 
charged  ? 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  25 

A.  Outposts  are  detachments  thrown  out  from  a  force  when 
halted,  for  the  purpose  of  protecting  it  from  sm-prise.  Like 
advance  guards  on  the  march,  outposts  are  charged  with  the 
duties  of  observation  and  resistance.  They  prevent  the  recon- 
naissance of  the  position  by  the  enemy's  scouts  and  patrols,  give 
warning  of  the  approach  of  hostile  bodies,  and  offer  sufficient 
resistance  to  the  enemy's  attacks  to  enable  the  main  body  to 
prepare  for  action. 

Q.  What  effect  has  a  system  of  outposts  on  the  health  and 
efficiency  of  an  army  ? 

A.  Unbroken  rest  at  night  being  necessary  for  the  preserva- 
tion of  the  health  and  efficiency  of  troops  undergoing  tl.e  hardships 
and  fatigues  of  a  campaign,  it  is  of  the  utmost  importance  that 
the  repose  of  the  army  in  camp  or  bivouac  should  not  be  dis- 
turbed by  needless  alarms.  The  army  must  feel  that  the  vig- 
ilance of  its  outposts  enables  it  to  sleep  in  security. 

Q.  What  effect  on  an  outpost  has  a  good  cavalry  screen  in 
its  front? 

A.  When  a  cavalry  screen  is  in  front  of  the  army,  the  duty 
of  observation  may  become  much  less  important  to  the  outposts 
than  would  otherwise  be  the  case;  but  while  a  strong  and  en- 
terprising cavalry  screen  greatly  increases  the  security  of  an 
army,  and  thus  materially  lightens  the  duty  of  the  outposts,  it 
furnishes  no  excuse  for  the  latter  to  be  careless,  or  to  forget  that 
the  duty  of  obsei'vation  is  inseparably  connected  with  that  of 
resistance. 

Q.    How  may  the  duties  of  an  outpost  be  classified? 

A.  The  duties  of  the  outposts  may  be  classified  as  follows : 
Observation : 

1.    To    observe    constantly    all    approaches    by 
which  the  enemy  might  advance. 
X  2.    To  watch,  and  immediately  report,  the  move- 

ments of  the  enemy. 


26  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

Resistance: 

1.  To  prevent  reconnaissance  by  the  enemy. 

2.  Above  all,  to  checlv  the  advance  of  the  enemy 
long  enough  to  enable  the  main  body  to  prepare 
for  action. 

Subdivisions  of  the  Outpost. 

Q.    Into  what  four  parts  is  an  outpost  divided? 

A,  Into  four  parts,  namely:  1.  Sentinels  or  vedettes;  2, 
Pickets;  3.  Supports;  4.  Reserve. 

Q.  Who  occupy  the  line  of  observation,  and  who  the  line 
of  resistance? 

A.  The  sentinels  or  vedettes  occupy  the  line  of  observation. 
They  are  sent  out  from  the  pickets,  and  supported  by  them.  The 
supports  usually  occupy  the  line  of  resistance,  and  are  supported 
bj^  the  reserve. 

Distances  Between  the  Several  Lines  of  the  Outpost. 

Q.  What  are  the  normal  distances  between  the  subdivisions 
of  an  outpost  of  infantry?  of  cavalry? 

A.  In  an  infantry  outpost  the  pickets  are  from  100  to  400 
yards  in  rear  of  the  sentinels;  the  supports,  from  400  to  800 
yards  in  rear  of  the  pickets;  and  the  reserve,  from  400  to  800 
yards  in  rear  of  the  supports.  In  a  cavalry  outpost  the  distance 
from  the  vedettes  to  the  picket  is  about  000  yards,  and  the 
oHier  distances  vary  between  the  limits  of  1,200  and  2,000  yards. 
These  distances  can  not  be  definitely  fixed,  as  they  depend  upon 
many  circumstances  of  ground,  weather,  and  the  natm-e  and 
proximity  of  the  enemy.  The  distances  given  above  are  to  be 
regarded  only  as  approximations  to  those  that  would  be  adopted 
in  most  cases. 

Q.    To  what  may  the  general  plan  of  an  outpost  be  likened? 


GATEGHIl^M  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  27 

A.  To  an  open  fan,  the  sentinels  being  along  the  outer  edge; 
or,  better  yet,  to  a  hand  with  the  fingers  extended  and  widely 
opened.  A  line  along  the  tips  of  the  fingers  would  represent  the 
chain  of  sentinels;  the  first  joints,  the  line  of  pickets;  the  sec- 
ond joints,  the  line  of  supports;  and  the  knuckles,  the  line  of  the 
reserve;  while  the  wrist  would  represent  the  position  of  the 
main  body.    (See  Plate  IV.) 

Q.  What  portion  of  the  strength  of  the  outpost  is  generally 
assigned  to  the  reserve,  to  the  supports,  and  to  the  pickets? 

A.  The  resei-ve  generally  consists  of  not  less  than  one-third 
nor  more  than  one-half  of  the  entire  outpost.  The  strength  ot 
the  supports  and  pickets  would  consequently  vary  from  two  thirds 
to  one-half  of  the  outpost. 

Q.  On  what  does  the  strength  of  a  picket  depend,  and  what 
principle  regulates  the  strength  of  each  support? 

A.  The  strength  of  each  picket  depends  upon  the  number  of 
sentinels  and  patrols  that  it  has  to  furnish,  and  the  size  of  each 
support  is  regulated  by  the  principle  that  it  should  be  equal  to 
the  aggregate  strength  of  all  the  pickets  supported  by  it.  As  a 
general  rule,  one-third  of  the  outpost  would  be  assigned  to  the 
reserve,  one-third  to  the  supports,  and  one-third  to  the  pickets 
and  sentries. 

Tzvo  Systems  of  Outposts. 

Q.  What  two  systems  of  outposts  are  there,  and  what  are 
their  general  characteristics 

A.  Outposts  are  of  two  kinds:  the  cordon  system,  in  which 
the  entire  front  is  covered  with  a  chain  of  sentinels;  and  the 
patrol  system,  in  which  only  the  roads  and  other  avenues  of 
approach  are  guarded  by  sentinels,  closely  backed  up  by  pickets, 
while  the  intervening  country  is  constantly  patrolled. ,„  The  best 
results  are  generally  obtained  by  a  combination  of  the  two 
systems. 


28  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

Position  for  Outposts. 

Q.    State  the  requirements  of  a  good  outpost  position. 

A.  The  outpost  must  cover  the  front  of  the  army  and  over- 
lap its  flanks,  unless  the  latter  are  secm'ed  by  impassable  obsta- 
cles. A  prominent  natural  feature  should  be  selected  to  mark 
the  general  line,  such  as  a  ridge,  a  river,  or  the  farther  edge  of  a 
wood.  The  most  favorable  position  is  one  Avhich  furnishes 
a  good  view  and  field  of  fire  to  the  front,  while  affording  con- 
cealment from  the  enemy  and  shelter  from  his  fire. 

Q.  State  what  furnishes  one  of  the  best,  and  what  one  of  the 
worst,  outpost  positions. 

A.  One  of  the  best  positions  is  a  wood  held  at  the  edge  to- 
ward the  enemy,  and  one  of  the  Avorst  is  a  wood  held  at  the 
nearer  edge. 

Q.  What  should  be  done  when  the  outpost  is  compelled  to 
occupy  a  wood,  the  farther  edge  of  which  is  too  distant  to  be 
occupied  ? 

A.  If  the  farther  edge  is  too  distant  to  be  occupied,  and  no 
broad  roads  or  continuous  clearings  exist  in  the  wood,  the  meas- 
ures to  be  taken  will  depend  upon  the  length  of  time  the  posi- 
tion is  to  be  occupied.  If  the  outpost  is  to  hold  the  position  for 
some  time,  as,  for  instance,  in  the  case  of  the  investment  of  a 
fortified  place,  a  belt  at  least  twenty  yards  Avide  should  be 
cleared,  an  entanglement  made  of  the  felled  trees,  and  the  senti- 
nels posted  along  the  near  edge  of  the  belt.  If,  as  is  usually  the 
case,  time  and  opportunity  do  not  admit  of  making  such  a  clear- 
ing, and  the  outpost  line  must  traverse  the  Avood,  the  line  of  sen- 
tinels should  be  along  a  stream,  ordinary  road,  or  ridge  over- 
looking a  valley,  so  as  to  get  the  best  vIcaa^  practicable  under  the 
circui^tances.  In  holding  the  outpost  line  in  a  heavy  forest, 
it  would  he  ^ve\l  to  make  use  of  Cossack  posts  closely  backed  up 
by  the  supports,  the  posts  sheltered  by  barricades  of  timber, 
patrolling  in  front  being  constant. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  29 

Q.  If  the  outpost  be  not  compelled  to  occupy  the  wood,  in 
this  case,  what  is  generally  advisable? 

A.  Instead  of  carrying  the  outpost  line  through  the  wood 
when  the  farther  edge  can  not  be  occupied,  it  is  generally  advisa- 
ble to  place  the  sentinels  under  cover  of  some  kind,  facing  the 
wood,  and  at  least  200  yards  from  the  near  edge,  the  wood  being 
patrolled. 

Q.  Where  a  stream,  canal,  or  other  obstacle  havijig  but  few 
passages,  lies  parallel  to  the  outpost  line,  what  may  be  done? 

A.  In  this  case  the  sentinels,  or  even  the  pickets,  may  some- 
times be  posted  beyond  it;  but  the  supports  should  be  kept  on 
the  near  side  for  fear  of  so  large  a  body  being  cut  off  before  it 
could  make  good  its  retreaf.  It  would  generally  be  best  to  keep 
even  the  line  of  sentinels  on  the  near  side,  and  merely  patrol  be- 
yond the  obstacle.  The  sentinels  may  be  withdrawn  some  dis- 
tance from  the  obstacles,  especially  durtng  the  day,  if  they  can 
thus  get  a  more  extended  view  or  find  better  cover. 

Q.    What  should  generally  be  the  shape  of  the  outpost  line? 

A.  It  should  be  convex  towards  the  enemy,  or  straight  with 
its  extremities  thrown  back.  Unless  the  nature  of  the  ground 
compels,  it  should  never  be  concave,  even  when  that  is  the  shape 
of  the  position  which  it  covers.  It  does  not  necessarily  con- 
form strictly  to  the  line  of  the  position  in  any  case. 


Strenglh  of  the  Outpost. 

Q.    On  what  does  the  strength  of  the  outpost  depend? 

A.  It  depends  upon  various  considerations,  such  as  the 
unture  of  the  country  and  the  strength,  proximity,  and  charac- 
ter of  the  enemy.  In  a  country  well  adapted  to  defence,  smaller 
numbers  suffice  than  in  an  open  country.  When  the  enemy  is 
near  and  aggressive,  the  outposts  must  be  strong  and  vigilant. 
The  strength  of  the  outpost  will  also  depend  upon  the  plan 


30  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

of  aetiou  determined  upon  iu  case  of  attack.  If  the  line  chosen 
for  tlie  deployment  of  the  main  body  coincides  with  the  line 
of  resistance  of  the  outpost,  the  latter  force  must  be  strong 
enough  to  hold  the  chosen  position  to  the  utmost.  If  it  is  de- 
cided to  fall  back  upon  the  main  body,  the  outpost  not  only 
may  be,  but  should  be,  weaker  than  in  the  former  case,  as  a 
strong  force  would  be  more  likely  to  become  compromised  in  a 
serious  en^igement  than  a  weaker  one. 

Q.  As  a  rule,  what  is  the  maximum  strength  of  the  outpost 
in  proportion  to  the  entire  command? 

A.  As  a  rule,  the  maximum  strength  of  an  outpost  is  one 
sixth  of  the  entire  force.  This  proportion  should  not  be  exceed- 
ed, except  in  case  of  absolute  necessity,  and  it  should  be  less 
whenever  a  reduction  is  consistent  with  prudence. 

Composition  of  the   Outpost. 

Q.  When  the  army  is  marcliiug,  from  day  to  day,  what 
constitutes  the  outpost  at  each  halt? 

A.  When  an  army  is  on  the  march  from  day  to  day,  the 
advance  guard  constitutes  the  outpost  at  each  lialt;  but  if  its 
duties  during  the  day's  march  have  been  arduous,  it  must  be 
relieved,  as  soon  as  practicable,  by  fresh  troops. 

Q.  If  outposts  are  required  on  the  flanks  and  rear,  of  what 
are  they  composed? 

A.  They  are  composed  of  the  flank  and  rear  guards,  when 
such  guards  exist  in  sufficient  strength;  otherwise  such  outposts 
are  taken  from  the  main  body,  which  will  also  fiu-nish  them 
when  the  duties  of  the  flank  and  rear  guards  during  the  day 
liave  been  especially  trying. 

(For  a  typical  disposition  of  a  regiment  of  infantry  forming 
the  outpost  of  a  division,  see  Plate  IV.) 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  31 

Q.  In  the  disposition  of  an  outpost,  what  attention  is  paid 
to  the  different  tactical  units? 

A.  They  should,  as  far  as  practicable,  be  kept  intact.  Thus, 
supposing  the  outpost  of  a  division  to  consist  of  a  regiment  of 
infantry,  the  reserve  might  be  composed  of  the  first  battalion; 
the  support  of  two  companies  of  the  second  battalion  and  two 
of  the  third,  each  supporting  the  remaining  companies  of  its 
own  battalion,  which  would  constitute  the  pickets  and  sentinels. 
(See  Plate  IV.) 

(For  a  typical  disposition  of  a  squadron  of  cavalry  forming 
the  outpost  of  a  cavalry  brigade,  see  Plate  V.) 

Q.  State  how  the  outposts  for  divisions  and  brigades  are 
generally  furnished,  and  give  the  alternative  formations  of  a 
brigade  outpost. 

A.  Each  division  will  generally  furnish  the  outpost  for  its 
own  front.  In  a  large  force  especially  this  principle  may  be 
advantageously  applied  to  brigades.  In  this  case  the  outpost  of 
the  division  might  consist  of  a  battalion  (four  companies)  from 
each  of  the  three  brigades.  The  brigade  outpost  would  then 
have  two  companies  in  reserve,  one  in  the  support,  and  the 
other  furnishing  the  pickets  and  sentinels.  As  alternative  for- 
mations, one  company  might  furnish  the  reserve;  two,  the  sup- 
ports; and  one,  the  pickets  and  sentinels:  or  ^le  reserve  and 
support  might  each  consist  of  one  company,  the  pickets  and 
sentinels  consisting  of  the  other  two. 

Q.  ^  What  provisions  for  the  command  of  the  outpost  are 
made  in  this  case? 

A.  The  outpost  of  each  brigade  would  be  under  the  com- 
mand of  the  officer  commanding  the  battalion  composing  it, 
and  would  constitute  a  section  of  the  general  outpost.  An  officer 
should  be  detailed  to  command  the  entire  outpost. 


PLATE  IV. 


--.4'o   SQA  OCOe  KQOi  NIVW  OJ.  30NV±Sia 


PLATE   V. 
SQ.UADRON  OF  CAVALRY,  OUTPOST  FOR  CAVALRY  BRIGADE 

LINE  OF  OBSERVATION--4000  YARDS 
fooo ' 


^   10O0  \.i.-^-—  *« —fi—'^—\jt -,V-*^-— 4>--°-°  *  > 


4 i 

T     PICKETS         i 


cS*"    suppoafs    cji 

\ 


RESERVE    [j^    ''c"'and"'D' 


34  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

Q,  If  two  brigades  encamp  in  the  first  line,  with  the  third 
in  reserve,  whence  are  the  outposts  talven? 

A.  The  outposts  for  the  division  are  taken  from  the  first 
two.  If  outposts  for  tlie  flank  and  rear  should  be  necessary, 
they  should  be  taken  from  the  reserve  brigade. 

Q.    Where  is  the  baggage  of  the  outpost  troops  kept'? 

A.  It  remains  in  rear  with  the  main  body,  the  only  vehicles 
brought  up  being  those  containing  intrenching  tools  and  a  part 
of  the  reserve  ammunition. 

Q.  State  when  infantry  is  preferable  to  cavalry  for  outpost 
duty,  and  the  reverse,  and  state  how  the  two  arms  may  be  ad- 
vantageously combined. 

A.  In  an  open  country,  in  daytime,  the  duty  can  be  best 
performed  by  cavalry.  In  a  close  country,  at  night,  and  when 
the  enemy  is  near,  infantry  is  preferable.  The  best  performance 
of  outpost  duty  requires  a  combination  of  the  two  arms.  Cavalry 
is  of  tlie  greatest  value  when  pushed  well  to  the  front  as  a 
screen,  but  it  may  often  be  advantageously  combined  with  in- 
fantry in  the  outpost  proper.  It  may  thus  occupy  lookout  sta- 
tions too  distant  to  be  held  by  infantry,  or  to  patrol  to  a  dis- 
tance beyond  the  outpost  that  would  be  impracticable  for  the 
latter  arm.  When  a  considerable  portion  of  the  outpost  line  is 
in  wooded  or  enclosed  country  and  the  space  adjoining  it  is 
open,  the  former  portion  may  be  held  by  infantry  and  the  latter 
by  cavalry.  As  a  rule,  however,  when  it  is  impracticable  to 
use  the  cavalry  as  an  advanced  screen,  its  use  with  the  outposts 
should  be  limited  to  patrolling  and  to  furnishing  orderlies,  when 
necessary,  to  the  pickets,  supports,  and  reserve. 

Q.  Why  should  not  cavalry  be  employed  too  freely  on  outpost 
duty  in  connection  with  infantry  ? 

A.  Cavalry  is  an  expensive  arm;  its  efficiency  is  more 
easily  impaired  than  that  of  infantry;  and  its  peculiar  uses  are 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  35 

of  such  vital  importance  to  an  army  that  its  sti'ength  should 
not  be  needlessly  frittered  away. 

Q.    How  should  artillery  be  used  with  an  outpost? 

A.  Artillery  is  of  great  value  to  an  outpost  when  it  can  be 
so  posted  as  to  command  an  important  road  or  defile  and  be  at 
the  same  time  beyond  the  effective  range  of  the  enemy's  rifle 
fire.  It  may  aid  materially,  with  shrapnel  fire,  in  supporting 
the  advanced  portions  of  the  outpost  and  in  covering  their  re- 
treat. It  should  be  in  constant  readiness  to  move  from  one  point 
to  another,  the  liorses  being  l^ept  harnessed,  and  only  a  portion 
fed  or  watered  at  a  time.  Only  the  limbers  should  be  with  the 
battery,  the  caissons  and  other  carriages  being  at  the  rear.  All 
cover  afforded  by  the  ground  should  be  utilized  for  the  con- 
cealment of  the  guns  from  the  enemy;  and  the  pieces  should  not 
be  exposed,  except  when  some  definite  object  is  to  be  gained. 
As  a  rule,  they  should  not  take  position  within  artillery  range  of 
ground  on  which  the  enemy's  batteries  could  take  post  unper- 
ceived;  should  it  be  necessary  to  do  so,  they  must  be  carefully 
concealed  and  their  prompt  withdrawal  provided  for.  The  ar- 
tillery, when  not  posted  to  command  bridges  or  roads,  should  be 
with  the  reserve,  preferably  near  a  road.  Machine-guns  may  be 
used  with  the  outpost  to  command  approaches  with  long-range 
fire.  Horse  artillery  is  best  suited  to  the  requirements  of  out- 
post duty. 

Distance  of  Outposts  from  the  Main  Body. 

Q.  State  the  considerations  on  which  the  distance  of  the 
outpost  from  the  main  body  depends. 

A.  The  outpost  must  be  far  enough  from  the  main  body  to 
give  the  latter  time  to  form  for  action  before  the  outlying  troops 
are  driven  in.  On  the  other  hand,  it  must  not  be  so  far  distant 
as  to  be  in  danger  of  being  cut  off  by  the  enemy.    The  distance 


36  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

will  also  depend  upon  the  strength  that  can  be  spared  for  the 
outpost  line,  the  length  of  the  line  increasing  almost  in  direct 
proportion  with  the  distance.  When  the  country  is  open,  the 
distance  will  generally  be  greater  than  in  an  enclosed  country 
which  offers  good  positions  for  defence.  When  the  main  body 
is  under  the  enemy's  artillery  tire,  it  can  not  form  for  action  in 
the  security  which  it  needs;  but  if  the  line  of  resistance  is  at  a 
distance  from  the  camp  or  bivouac  equal  to  the  limit  of  the 
effective  range  of  artillery,  the  outpost  must  be  driven  from 
that  line  before  the  main  body  can  be  subjected  to  the  fire  of  the 
hostile  guns. 

Q.  What  is  the  usual  distance,  and  what  is  the  maximum 
distance? 

A.  The  supports  (occupying  the  line  of  resistance)  should 
be  at  a  distance  of  about  3,000  yards  from  the  main  body.  This 
fixes  the  line  of  supports,  at  proper  distances  from  which  the 
other  parts  of  the  outpost  are  established.  The  maximum  dis- 
tance from  an  infantry  outpost  to  the  body  which  it  covers  is 
about  three  miles,  supposing  the  outpost  to  be  of  considerable 
strength  and  strongly  posted. 

The  Commander  of  the  Outpost. 

Q.  How  is  the  outpost  divided,  and  where  are  the  several 
head<iuarters?  ^ 

A.  The  officer  detailed  to  command  the  outpost  makes  his 
headquarters  with  the  reserve,  and  establishes  there  his  field 
telegraph  or  signal  station.  If  the  front  of  the  outpost  is  consid- 
erable, it  is  divided  into  sections  of  about  a  mile  or  a  mile  and 
a  half  for  infantry  and  three  miles  for  cavalry,  and  an  officer 
assigned  to  the  command  of  each  section.  Each  section  com- 
mander makes  his  headquarters  with  one  of  his  supports,  and 
is  under  the  orders  of  the  commander  of  the  outpost.    When 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  37 

each  brigade  guards  its  own  front,  tlie  sections  of  the  outpost 
coincide  with  the  brigade>fronts. 

Q.  What  instructions  does  the  outpost  commander  receive 
from  the  commander  of  the  forces,  and  what  does  he  (the  out- 
post commander)  then  do? 

A.  The  outpost  commander  receives  from  the  commander 
of  the  forces  instructions  as  to  the  general  front  to  be  occupied 
by  the  outposts,  their  object,  and  the  amount  of  resistance  they 
are  expected  to  make.  He  is  also  informed  about  the  avenues 
of  approacli  from  the  direction  of  the  opposing  force,  and  is 
made  acquainted  with  everything  known  in  regard  to  the  posi- 
tion and  probable  intentions  of  the  enemy.  He  then  determines 
the  strength  of  the  reserve,  supports,  and  pickets;  decides 
upon  the  distance  of  the  line  of  resistance  from  the  main 
body,  and  selects  a  line  of  observation  farther  in  advance.  A 
good  topographical' map  of  the  position  selected  for  the  camp 
and  the  surrounding  country  would  enable  him  to  choose  these 
positions  at  once.  In  the  absence  of  such  a  map  they  must  be 
determined  by  reconnaissance,  and  in  any  case  the  ground  must 
be  carefully  examined  before  the  detachments  move  out.  The 
station  of  the  reserve  is  next  fixed,  the  positions  of  the  supports 
pointed  out,  places  for  the  pickets  approximately  designated, 
and  the  general  line  of  the  sentinels  roughly  indicated. 

The  outpost  commander  sends  to  the  commander  of  the 
main  body  all  i^forfciation  received,  first  testing  its  accuracy 
as  far  as  practicable,  without  unnecessary  delay  in  its  trans- 
mission. 

Q.  What  instructions  does- the  outpost  commander  give  to 
his  subordinates? 

A.    He  instructs  them  as  to: 

1.  The  general  front  of  the  outpost  line. 

2.  The  ground  to  be  occupied  by  each. 

3.  The  positions  of  neighboring  supports  and  pickets. 


38  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

4.  The  night  positions  of  the  pickets  and  supports. 

5.  What  is  known  of  the  enem^  and  his  probable  move- 
ments. 

6.  The  approaches  by  which  the  enemy  might  advance. 

7.  The  direction  and  method  of  patrolling. 

8.  What  is  to  be  done  in  case  of  attack. 

9.  How  flags  of  truce  and  deserters  are  to  be  received. 

10.  The  kind  of  reports  required. 

11.  Where  he  himself  is  to  be  found. 

12.  The  countersign  and  parole. 

Q.  When  the  outpost  has  been  posted,  what  does  its  com- 
mander do? 

A.  When  the  outpost  has  been  posted,  its  commander 
makes  his  inspection;  orders  such  changes  in  the  positions  of 
supports,  pickets,  or  sentinels  as  may  seem  advisable;  sees 
that  the  roads  and  paths  leading  from  the  enemy  are  properly 
guarded;  gives  directions  for  the  fortification  of  such  parts  of 
the  position  as  need  strengthening;  and  is  especially  careful 
that  the  flanks  are  secured  by  resting  them  on  impassable 
obstacles,  or  by  refusing  them  and  protecting  them  by 
detachments. 

Q.    As  a  rule,  how  should  the  outpost  be  intrenched? 

A.  As  a  rule,  the  outpost  should  strengthen  its  position  by 
intrenching.  A  continuous  line  of  intrenchments  is  out  of  the 
question,  as  it  would  require  too  much  labor  t^^  make  it  and  too 
many  men  to  hold  it;  but  each  picket  and,  above  all,  each  sup- 
port should  intrench  when  practicable.  Whether  the  reserve 
should  intrench  or  not  will  depend  on  circumstances.  If  the 
outpost  remains  in  the  position  for  some  time,  the  sentinels 
should  shelter  themselves  in  pits  about  two  and  a  half  feet  in 
depth,  the  earth  being  thrown  up  toward  the  enemy  and  cov- 
ered with  sod  or  twigs,  in  order  that  it  may  not  attract 
attention. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.    »  39 

Sentinels  and   Vedettes. 

Q.  How  are  seiitiuels  geuerally  posted,  and  how  may  the 
group  system  be  used? 

A.  Sentinels  must  be  so  posted  as  to  have  a  good  view  to 
the  front  and  flanks,  and  be  concealed  as  much  as  possible. 
They  do  not  walk  their  posts,  but  remain  stationary,  being  gen- 
erally posted  double,  so  that  one  man  may  go  to  examine  any 
suspicious  point  while  the  other  remains  on  post.  They  may 
also  be  posted  in  groups.  In  the  former  case  the  reliefs  not  on 
post  remain  with  the  picket;  in  the  latter  case  the  group  accom- 
panies tlie  sentinel  to  his  post  and  remains  in  concealment  a 
short  distance  behind  him.  When  the  group  system  is  used,  a 
single  sentinel  for  each  will  suffice  by  day,  but  double  sentinels 
should  be  used  at  night.  As  the  group  furnishes  the  reliefs,  it 
should  consist  of  three  or  six  men,  and  every  two  or  three 
groups  should  be  under  charge  of  a  non-commissioned  officer. 

Q.     What  are  the  requirements  of  a  good  post  for  a  sentinel? 

A.  There  should  be  easy  communication  with  neighboring 
sentinels  and  with  the  picket,  and  a  clear  view  of  all  approaches; 
and  the  post  (especially  at  night)  should  not,  if  it  can  be  avoided, 
be  so  situated  that  the  noise  of  falling  water  or  the  sough- 
ing of  the  wind  through  the  trees  would  deaden  the  noise  of 
approaching  footsteps. 

Q.  How  far  apart  may  sentinels  and  vedettes  be?— mini- 
mum and  maximum  distances. 

A.  Sentinels  are  generally  not  less  than  100  nor  more  than 
400  yards  apart— the  lesser  limit  being  usually  the  minimum 
for  single  sentinels,  and  the  greater  limit  the  maximum  for 
double  ones.  Vedettes  may  be  as  far  as  600  yards  apart.  But 
no  definite  rule  can  be  laid  down  in  this  matter,  except  that  the 
number  of  posts  should  be  sufficient  to  insure  a  vigilant  watch 
on  all  points  at  which  the  enemy  might  approach. 


40  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

Q.    How  are  the  sentinel  posts  numbered? 

A.  The  posts  furnished  by  each  picket  are  numbered  from 
right  to  left. 

Q.    What  are  the  general  duties  of  a  sentinel? 

A.  Sentinels  should  watch  and  listen  without  betraying 
their  own  presence;  but  observation  is  the  first  consideration, 
and  concealment  is  of  secondary  importance.  They  must  not 
smoke,  and  such  conversation  as  may  be  necessary  between 
them  must  be  conducted  in  a  whisper.  The  sentinel  must  not 
have  about  him  any  glittering  accouterments;  and,  except  in 
foggy  weather  or  on  a  dark  night,  must  keep  his  bayonet  in  its 
scabbard. 

Q.    What  should  each  sentinel  clearly  understand? 

A.    1.  Tlie  countersign. 

2.  The  number  of  his  own  post. 

3.  The  number  and  position  of  his  own  picket  and  the  name 
of  its  commander. 

4.  The  position  of  the  neighboring  sentinels  aild  the  ex- 
amining post,  where  there  is  one. 

5.  Tlie  direction  of  the  enemy  and  the  probable  line  of  his 
advance. 

6.  The  points  to  which  all  roads,  paths,  and  railroads  in 
sight  lead. 

7.  The  names  of  all  villages  and  rivers  in  view. 

8.  The  signals  by  which  he  should  communicate  with  the 
pickets  or  detached  posts. 

The  principal  thing  is  that  he  should  know  where  to  look  for 
the  enemy,  and  what  to  do  if  he  sees  him. 

Q.  What  persons  are  alloAved  to  cross  the  line  of  sentinels, 
and  what  is  done  with  the  others? 

A.  Only  persons  in  the  performance  of  duty  with  the  out- 
post, or  having  authority  over  it,  are  allowed  to  cross  the  line  of 
sentinels.      All  other  people,  with  the  exception  of  deserters 


CATECHT^M  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  41 

:ind  bearers  of  flags  of  truce,  are  halted,  not  more  than  one 
being-  advanced  at  a  time,  and  then  conducted,  by  one  of  the 
sentinels,  back  to  flie  piclvet,  or  detained  until  the  arrival  of  the 
visiting-  patrol.  If  they  refuse  to  halt,  or  attempt  to  escape, 
they  must  be  shot  down.  If  there  is  a  special  examining  post, 
people  are  conducted  to  it  instead  of  to  the  picket. 

Q.  How  are  deserters  from  the  enemy  received  at  the 
outpost  ? 

A.  They  are  halted  at  some  distance  from  the  post,  and  re- 
quired to  lay  down  their  arms.  The  commander  of  the  picket 
is  at  once  notified,  and  he  sends  out  a  patrol  to  bring  them  in. 
If  the  deserters  are  pursued  by  the  enemy,  tliey  are  ordered  to 
throw  down  their  arms,  the  picket  being  at  the  same  time 
alarmed.  If  they  refuse  to  obey  tlie  order,  the  pi  civet  opens  fire 
on  them  as  a  necessary  precaution  against  a  possible  ruse  on  the 
part  of  the  enemy.  As  a  rule,  inhabitants  and  deserters  are 
not  alloAved  to  cross  the  line  of  .sentinels  at  night.  An  excep- 
tion to  this  rule,  in  the  case  of  deserters,  is  when  the  demorali- 
zation of  the  enemy  is  known  to  be  such  that  wholesale  deser- 
tions are  to  be  expected.  Under  any  circumjatances  too  much 
care  can  not  be  exercised  in  receiving  deserters,  as  an  enemy 
might  by  means  of  sham  deserters  quietly  gain  possession  of 
picket  posts,  and  thus  have  a  foothold  for  a  sudden  attack. 

Q.  When  a  flag  of  truce  approaches,  how  is  the  bearer  re- 
ceived by  the  sentinel? 

A.  The  bearer  and  his  escort  (if  he  have  one)  are  halted  in 
front  of  the  line  of  sentinels  and  ordered  to  face  in  the  direction 
from  which  they  came.  Word  is  then  at  once  sent  back  to  the 
commander  of  the  picket.  While  the  bearer  and  his  escort  are 
halted,  the  sentinel  must  not  converse  with  them  nor  alloAV  them 
to  reconnoiter. 

Q.    What  compliments  are  paid  by  sentinels? 

A.    The  vigilance  of  the  sentinel  in  watching  the  enemy 


42  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

iiiust  not  be  disturbed  by  the  usual  requirements  of  military 
etiquette.  He  pays  no  compliments,  and  takes  no  notice  of  any 
of  bis  officers  who  come  upon  bis  post,  unless  addressed  by 
tliem,  except  so  far  as  may  be  necessary  to  challenge  and  iden- 
tify them. 

Q.  Everything  observed  by  the  sentinel  is  how  communi- 
cated ? 

'  A.  Everything  observed  by  the  sentinel  in  regard  to  the 
enemy  should  be  communicated  at  once  to  the  picket,  especial 
care  being  taken  to  report  promptly  all  indications  of  the  ene- 
my's approach.  If  the  sentinel  is  satisfied  that  the  enemy  is 
advancing  to  attack,  he  gives  the  alarm  by  firing. 

Q.    AVhat  are  the  general  iiiles  in  regard  to  sentinels  firing? 

A.  When  immediate  alarm  is  not  necessary,  firing  should 
be  avoided;  it  disturbs  the  repose  of  the  troops,  and  if  ground- 
less alarms  are  frequently  given,  the  troops  grow  careless  and 
fail  to  heed  the  warning  when  real  danger  comes.  The  senti- 
nel, by  firing,  often  needlessly  alarms  his  own  outpost,  and 
gives  a  certain  amount  of  information  to  the  enemy  by  betray- 
ing his  own  position;  while  by  remaining  hidden  and  watching 
carefully  he  might  bo  able  to  give  a  valuable  report  of  the  dis- 
position of  the  opposing  outpost. 

Q.  How  are  sentinels  posted,  and  how  often  should  they  be 
relieved  ? 

A.  It  is  advisable  to  keep  the  same  men  on  the  same  posts, 
instead  of  changing  them  to  new  ones  each  time  they  are 
posted.  For  very  important  posts  the  most  intelligent  men 
should  be  selected,  and  on  double  posts  the  well-instructed  and 
intelligent  man  is  placed  with  one  who  is  less  so.  The  sentinels 
should  be  relieved  every  two  hours  during  the  day  and  every 
hour  during  the  night.  In  very  inclement  weather  they  should 
be  relieved  every  hour  during  the  day. 

Q.    How  are  vedettes  posted  ? 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  43 

A.  Vedettes,  like  sentinels,  are  posted  in  pairs,  and  for 
similar  reasons.  One  is  habitually  six  or  eight  yards  to  the 
right  or  left  rear  of  the  other;  a  greater  distance  would  make 
the  horses  uneasy,  and  thus  distract  the  attention  of  the  riders, 
while  a  less  distance  would  encourage  conversation  between 
the  vedettes. 

Q.  How  may  vedettes  sometimes  perform  their  duty  dis- 
mounted ? 

A.  When  cavalry  is  operating  in  a  close  or  wooded  coun- 
try, the  vedettes  may  dismount,  one  holding  the  horses  while  the 
other  keeps  watch.  Whenever  the  vedette  can  perform  his  duty 
dismounted,  he  should  do  so  as  a  means  of  sparing  his  horse. 
The  horse  may  sometimes  be  held,  with  the  lariat,  behind  the 
brow  of  a  hill,  while  the  vedette,  lying  down,  peers  over  the 
crest.  In  any  case,  the  mode  of  action  must  be  determined  by 
the  two  considerations  of  observation  and  concealment,  it  being 
always  remembered  that  it  is  more  important  to  see  than  to 
avoid  being  seen. 

Q.    What  is  a  connecting  sentinel? 

A.  When  the  sentinel  post  is  not  in  plain  view  of  the  picket, 
a  connecting  sentinel  is  posted  at  a  point  where  he  can  see  the 
post  and  be  seen  by  the  picket.  It  is  his  duty  to  transmit  sig- 
nals from  one  to  the  other.  Connecting  sentinels  are  always 
single.  A  connecting  vedette  is  generally  moimted  by  day,  and 
always  at  night.    If  dismounted,  his  horse  is  Avith  the  picket. 

Q,    What  is  a  picket  sentinel? 

A,  A  single  sentinel  posted  at  the  picket  to  keep  a  lookout 
on  the  sentinels  or  connecting  sentinels,  and  report  all  signals 
made  by  them  or  any  unusual  occurrence.  In  a  cavalry  picket 
this  sentinel  is  dismounted. 


44  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

Examining  Posts. 

Q.  What  is  the  object  of  an  examining  post,  and  of  what 
persons  does  it  consist? 

A.  An  examining  post  is  stationed  on  a  main  road,  for  the 
purpose  of  examining  persons  wlio  are  allowed  to  cross  the  line 
of  outposts.  It  usually  consists  of  six  men  (three  reliefs  of  a 
double-sentinel  post)  under  the  command  of  an  officer  or  a 
specially  selected  non-commissioned  officer.  Examining  posts 
are  of  doubtful  necessity  when  the  sentinels  are  intelligent 
and  faithful. 

Q.    How  is  a  person  received  at  the  examining  post? 

A.  On  the  approach  of  any  person  to  the  examining  post, 
one  of  the  sentinels  advances  and  halts  him  at  some  distance 
from  the  line,  while  the  other  notifies  the  commander  of  the 
post,  who  examines  the  stranger,  and  either  allows  him  to  pass 
or  conducts  him  to  the  commander  of  the  picket.  Any  person 
approaching  the  line  of  sentinels  at  any  other  than  a  designated 
point  is  passed  along  from  post  to  post  until  he  is  brought  to 
the  examining  party;  care  being  talien  that  he  is  not  given  an 
opportunity  to  observe  the  location  of  the  pickets  and  supports. 
The  bearer  of  a  flag  of  truce,  or  a  suspected  spy,  should  be  blind- 
folded before  being  conducted  to  the  examining  post,  if  he  be 
conducted  thither  instead  of  direct  to  the  picket. 

Detached  Posts. 

Q.    What  are  detached  posts? 

A.  They  are  small  parties  detached  from  a  picket  to  pro- 
tect exposed  points  or  support  isolated  sentinels.  They  consist 
generally  of  from  three  to  t^velve  men,  and  are  under  an  officer 
or  non-commissioned  officer,  according  to  their  strength  and  the 
importance  of  their  position.    They  are,  in  fact,  small  pickets, 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  liUTY.  45 

aud  must  act  in  concert  with  the  pickets  from  which  they  are 
talieu. 

Q.  What  points  may  be  advantageously  held  by  detached 
posts  ? 

A.  A  bridge  on  a  flank  might  be  held  by  a  detached  post. 
An  isolated  hill,  affording  a  good  outlook,  too  far  .to  the  front  to 
be  included  in  tlie  general  line,  but  near  enough  to  be  occupied 
without  extreme  risk,  should  be  held  by  such  a  post,  communi- 
cating with  the  outpost  by  signal. 

Q.  How  often  are  detached  posts  relieved,  and  what  is 
required  of  the  men  composing  them? 

A.  If  practicahle,  detached  posts  should  be  relieved  every 
six  hours.  They  are  not  allowed  to  light  fires,  and  the  men  are 
required  to  keep  on  their  equipments  and  have  their  arms  con- 
stantly at  hand.  In  a  detached  post  composed  of  cavalry  the 
horses  are  kept  constantly  saddled  and  bridled  and  held  by 
horse-holders,  three-fourths  of  the  men  being  ready  to  fight  on 
foot.  The  sentinels  or  dismounted  vedettes  are  posted  close  in 
front  of  the  party.    Vedettes  may  be  pushed  farther  forward. 

Pickets. 

Q.  What  is  the  usual  strength  of  a  picket,  both  infantry 
and  cavalry? 

A.  An  infantry  picket  generally  consists  of  from  25  to  50 
men,  and  a  cavalry  picket  usually  varies  between  20  and  30. 

Q.  How  many  double  sentinels  or  vedettes  does  a  picket 
usually  furnish? 

A.  From  two  to  four  double  sentinels  or  vedettes,  there  be- 
ing three  reliefs  for  each  post. 

Q.  What  regulates  the  strength  of  a  picket,  and  what  por- 
tion of  the  picket  is  used  in  patrolling? 

A.    If  detached  posts  are  to  be  sent  out  from  the  picket, 


46  CATEGEIHM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

corresponding-  additional  strength  must  be  given  it,  and  an 
allowance  must  be  made  for  patrolling.  The  requirements  for 
patrolling  vary  so  much  that  the  proportion  of  the  picl^et  to  be 
used  for  that  purpose  can  not  be  fixed.  Generally,  about  a 
third  of  the  picket  should  be  used  in  patrolling.  In  a  close 
country,  the  patrols,  rather  than  the  sentinels,  should  be  in- 
creased; and  at  night  the  patrols  are  the  principal  reliance  for 
observation.  There  should  be  enough  men  for  three  patrols,  so 
as  to  admit  of  one  patrol  being  out,  one  ready  to  go  out,  and  one 
resting.  This  is  especially  the  case  with  a  cavalry  picket.  The 
strength  of  the  picket  will  thus  vary;  but  ils  nnnimuni  strength 
must  allow  six  men  for  every  double-sentinel  post,  three  for 
eacli  connecting  sentinel,  three  for  the  picket  sentinel,  and  at 
least  three  non-commissioned  officers.  These  are  the  barest  re- 
quirements, without  considering  patrols.  The  picket  com- 
mander should  always,  if  possible,  be  a  commissioned  officer. 

Q.  What  are  the  maximum  and  minimum  fronts  of  an  in- 
fantry picket? 

A.  The  minimum  front  covered  by  the  sentinels  of  a  single 
picket  may  be  placed  at  400  yards.  The  maximum  front,  even 
when  the  picket  furnishes  four  double  sentinels,  may  be  placed 
at  800  yards. 

Q.  What  are  the  maximum  and  minimum  fronts  of  a  cav- 
alry picket? 

A.  The  front  covered  by  the  vedettes  of  a  cavalry  picket 
varies  from  1,000  to  2,000  yards. 

Q.    Pickets  are  generally  about  how  far  apart? 

A.  Infantry  pickets  are  generally  from  600  to  800  yards 
apart,  and  cavalry  pickets  from  1,000  to  1,500  yards.  All  these 
distances  vary  with  different  circumstances  of  ground  and 
weather;  the  distances  given  above  have  been  found  by  experi- 
ence to  answer  in  many  cases,  but  they  must  often  be  materi- 
ally changed. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  47 

Q.  What  liue  is  the  first  consideration  in  selecting  the 
ground  for  the  outpost? 

A.  As  a  rule,  the  line  of  sentinels  or  vedettes~the  line  of 
observation— should  be  made  the  first  consideration  in  select- 
ing the  ground  for  the  outpost;  the  position  of  the  sentinels 
regulating  that  of  the  pickets,  and  not  the  reverse. 

Q.    What  are  the  six  requirements  of  a  perfect  picliet  post? 

A.  1.  It  should  be  near  enough  to  the  sentinels  to  give 
them  prompt  support,  but  not  so  close  as  to  be  involved  in  their 
disaster  if  they  should  be  surprised  and  suddenly  driven  in; 

2.  It  should  be  posted  on,  and  command,  some  route  lead- 
ing from  the  enemy;  the  largest  pickets  on  the  most  imiDortant 
routes; 

3.  It  should  be  in  a  good  defensive  position,  should  have  € 
good  field  of  fire  to  the  front,  and  should  be  so  far  concealed 
that  the  enemy  could  not  discover  it  without  attacking; 

4.  It  sliould,  as  far  as  consistent  with  the  foregoing  require- 
ments, be  in  rear  of  the  center  of  its  line  of  sentinels; 

5.  It  should  have  free  approaches  to  its  sentinels,  neighbor- 
ing pickets,  supports,  and  reserves,  and  should  have  a  good  line 
of  retreat; 

6.  It  should  be  close  enough  to  the  neighboring  pickets  for 
mutual  support,  and  a  mutual  flanking  fire  should  be  provided 
for. 

A  position  fulfilling  all  these  requirements  can  scarcely  be 
hoped  for;  the  best  position  will  be  the  one  which  fulfills  the 
greatest  part  of  them. 

Q.    If  a  picket  is  posted  in  a  defile,  what  should  be  done? 

A.  Its  front  should  be  covered  with  obstacles,  in  order 
that  it  may  not  be  overpowered  by  a  sudden  rush  of  the  enemy. 

Q.  What  is  the  general  rule  in  regard  to  posting  a  picket 
in  a  house  or  enclosure;  and  what  exception  is  there  to  the  i-ule? 

A.    A  picket  should  not  be  posted  in  a  house  nor  in  an  en- 


48  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

closiu^e.  Au  exception  to  this  rule  is  found  in  the  case  of  a  be- 
sieging force,  whose  front  is  covered  with  formidable  obstacles. 

Q.  How  should  the  picket  be  situated  relatively  to  a  junc- 
tion of  roads  leading  from  the  enemy's  position? 

A.  Any  junction  of  roads  leading  from  the  enemy's  posi- 
tion should  be  in  front  of  the  picliet,  and  roads  passing  the  flank 
should  be  carefully  guarded. 

Q.  When  an  impassable  obstacle  lies  along  a  portion  of  the 
front  of  the  outpost,  what  may  be  done? 

A.  When  an  impassable  obstacle,  such  as  a  swamp,  lake, 
or  stream,  lies  along  a  portion  of  the  front  of  the  outposts,  the 
strengtli  at  that  part  of  the  line  may  be  limited  to  the  require- 
ments of  observation,  the  sentinels  being  few,  and  the  chief 
reliance  being  placed  upon  patrolling. 

Q.  What  are  the  general  rules  concerning  fires  with  the 
picket? 

A.  Fires  should  not  be  lighted  by  a  piclvet  unless  they  can 
1)0  well  concealed  from  the  enemy.  If  a  tire  is  allowed  at  nighty 
tlie  rally ing-point  should  be  some  distance  in  its  rear,  so  that 
tlie  light  would  be  cast  upon  an  advancing  enemy. 

Q.  What  is  required  of  the  men  composing  the  picket,  both 
infnntry  and  cavalry? 

A.  The  men  composing  the  picket  stack  arms  and  may  re- 
move their  equipinents,  with  the  exception  of  the  cartridge- 
belt.  Tliey  nuist  not  leave  the  immediate  vicinity  of  tlie  picket, 
and  must  be  ready  to  fall  in  at  a  moment's  notice.  Part  of  the 
men  must  be  constantly  under  arms  at  night,  and  separated 
from  the  rest,  who  keep  their  arms  close  at  hand  while  sleep- 
ing. If  danger  seems  imminent,  the  entire  picket  must  be 
awake  and  imder  arms.  In  a  cavalry  picket,  or  in  the  case  of 
mounted  orderlies  attached  to  au  infantry  picket,  the  horses 
should  be  kept  constantly  saddled,  and  the  bridles  should  be 
taken  off  only  for  feeding  and  watering.    Not  more  than  one- 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  49 

third,  or  at  most  oue-lialf ,  of  the  horses  should  be  fed  at  a  time. 
When  there  is  uo  water  close  to  the  picket,  only  a  few  horses 
should  be  taken  to  the  water  at  a  time,  the  men  in  charge  of 
them  being  under  arms  and  fully  equipped.  Saddles  should  be 
adjusted  once  every  twelve  hours,  or  as  much  oftener  as  neces- 
saiy,  under  direction  of  an  officer  or  non-commissioned  officer. 

Q.  What  should  be  done  if  a  noise  is  heard  from  a  neigh- 
boring picket? 

A.  The  commander  of  the  picket  should  cause  it  to  stand 
to  arms  at  once  if  a  noise  is  lieard  from  a  neighboring  picket; 
and  if  that  picket  is  attacked,  he  should  endeavor  to  relieve  it 
by  an  attack  upon  the  enemy's  flank.  If  an  attack  is  not  evi- 
dent, but  the  noise  seems  suspicious,  a  patrol  should  be  sent  to 
investigate. 

The  Silppcrts. 

Q.    What  do  the  supports  constitute? 

A.  The  supports  constitute  a  force  upon  which  the  pickets 
fall  back  if  driven  in  by  the  enemy,  or  with  which  (in  excep- 
tional cases)  the  pickets  may  be  reinforced. 

Q.  What  regulates  the  jiosition  of  the  supports,  and  what 
should  be  its  general  requirements? 

A.  The  ground  regulates  their  position,  as  they  should 
occupy  the  line  of  resistance.  The  position  selected  •  should 
afford  a  good  general  line  of  defence,  ground  uniformly  mod- 
erately good  being  preferable  to  that  whicli  is  very  strong  in 
some  parts  and  weak  in  others.  The  supports  should  not  be 
too  far  away  from  the  pickets'  to  render  timely  aid,  nor  so  close 
as  to  be  involved  in  their  defeat  if  suddenly  driven  in.  They 
should  be  located  as  centrally  as  practicable  in  reference  to  the 
pickets  in  their  front,  and  should  preferably  be  upon,  or  near, 
the    main    routes    by    which    the    enemy    might    advance.    A 


50  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

defile  on  the  road  leading  from  the  enemy's  position  to  the 
eauip  is  generally  a  good  position  for  a  support.  Sometimes  the 
best  line  of  resistance  lies  close  to  the  line  of  observation,  or 
even  coincides  with  it.  In  such  cases  the  supports  may  be 
close  to  the  pickets  or  merged  with  them.  One  support  is  gener- 
ally sufficient  for  two  or  three  pickets. 

Q.  What  arrangements  should  the  commander  of  a  support 
make  with  a  view  to  defence? 

A.  He  should  make  arrangements  with  the  commanders  of 
the  pickets  in  his  front  for  concerted  action  in  case  of  attack, 
and  should  maintain  communication  with  them,  with  the  neigh- 
Ijoring  supports,  and  with  the  reserve.  This  conmiunication  is 
generally  kept  up  by  means  of  patrols. 

Q.    What  is  required  of  the  men  composing  the  support? 

A.  The  support  should  have  one  or  more  sentinels  or 
vedettes  posted  the  same  as  a  picket,  but  may  relax  to  some 
extent  the  watchfulness  exacted  from  the  pickets.  The  men 
stack  arms  and  are  allowed  to  remove  their  accouterments  (ex- 
cepting always  the  cartridge-belt),  but  they  are  not  permitted 
to  wander  away  from  the  post  of  the  support,  and  must  be 
ready  at  all  times  to  fall  in.  They  are  usually  allowed  to  light 
tires,  and  may  be  required  to  do  the  cooking  for  the  pickets  as 
well  as  for  themselves.  The  horses  with  the  support  are  kept 
in  the  same  degree  of  readiness  as  those  with  the  pickets.  No 
shouting  or  unnecessary  noise  of  any  kind  should  be  permitted 
in  any  part  of  the  outpost.  ^^\  ^ ,^ ^^    y V  ,  u  i.^  ^  ^vi  o, 

,   „  CaDt.  3d  Infantr 

Cossack  rosts. 

Q.    What  are  Cossack  posts? 

A.  They  are  small  posts  sent  out  directly  from  the  supports. 
10a cli  of  these  posts  consists  of  four  men;  namely,  three  reliefs 
of  a  single  sentinel,  and  a  non-commisioned  officer  or  old  sol- 
dier for  the  command  of  the  post. 


G ATE C II ISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  51 

Q.  How  many  Cossack  posts  are  furnished  by  each  support, 
and  how  are  they  placed?  " 

A.  Each  support  fui^nishes  from  fom-  to  twelve  Cossack 
posts,  which  are  placed  from  300  to  400  yards  in  advance  of  it, 
and  from  100  to  300  yards  ^.part;  the  smaller  limit  of  distance 
in  the  case  of  very  close  and  rugged  ground,  and  the  latter  in 
the  case  of  very  open  ground.  The  sentinel  is  stationed  from 
10  to  30  yards  in  advance  of  the  post,  the  other  members  of 
which  remain  concealed  and  keep  him  constantly  in  view. 

Q.  How  often  are  the  sentinels  and  posts  relieved,  and  how 
is  the  patrolling  done? 

A.  The  sentinels  are  relieved  every  hour  and  the  post  every 
three  hours.  One  or  two  men  may  be  sent  from  the  post,  from 
time  to  time,  to  patrol  to  the  post  on  either  side;  but,  as  a  rule, 
all  the  patrolling  is  done  frojn  the  support. 

Q.  What  are  the  disadvantages  and  advantages  of  Cossack 
posts? 

A.  It  would  seem  at  first  thought  that  a  line  of  Cossack 
p();^ts  must  lack  the  resisting  power  of  the  two  lines  of  senti- 
nels and  pickets,-  and  that  it  should,  therefore,  be  used  only 
when  the  ground  affords  strong  defensive  positions.  It  is  not, 
however,  without  many  positive  elements  of  strength.  The 
sentinels  are  more  likelj^  to  be  free  from  the  timidity  of  loneli- 
ness, and  to  be  more  resolute  in  the  performance  of  their  duty, 
when  they  are  closely  backed  up  by  a  friendly  post,  than  when 
they  are  at  a  considerable  distance  from  a  picket.  Each  post 
could  be  intrenched,  and  should  be  so  stationed  as  to  be  able  to 
cross  its  fire  with  that  of  the  posts  on  its  right  and  left.  It  is 
reasonable  to  suppose  that  the  posts  could  thus  hold  their  own 
long  enough  to  enable  the  supports  to  prepare  fully  for  action. 
In  consideration  of  these  facts  and  the  still  more  important 
one  that  the  system  of  Cossack  posts  is  in  thorough  keeping 
with  the  nature  of  American  warfare,  its  adoption  in  most  cases 


52  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

may  be  safely  recommended.  It  is,  finally,  more  economical  of 
men  than  the  other  system.    (See  Plate  VI.) 

Q.    Should  either  system  be  exclusively  employed? 

A.  Not  as  a  rule.  A  combination  of  the  two  is  usually  pref 
erable.  If  a  wood  or  a  broken  piece  of  ground  exists  in  the  line, 
Cossack  posts  would  generally  be  more  suitable;  but  on  the 
open  ground  the  picket  system  would  usually  be  preferable. 

The  Reserve. 

Q.  What  does  the  reserve  constitute,  and  of  what  does  it 
generally  consist? 

A.  It  constitutes  the  general  support  and  pivot  of  resist- 
ance of  the  whole  outpost,  and  usually  consists  of  all  three 
arms. 

Q.  What  considerations  influence  the  selection  of  its  posi- 
tion? 

A.  It  should  be  concealed  from  the  enemy,  and  should  be 
posted  as  centrally  as  practicable,  so  as  to  enable  it  to  move 
quickly  to  any  endangered  point.  It  may  sometimes  be  divided 
into  two  parts,  to  facilitate  supporting  the  more  advanced 
bodies;  and  it  should  be  upon  the  principal  line  or  lines  of  re- 
treat to  the  main  body. 

Q.    Should  the  position  of  the  reserve  be  intrenched? 

A.  It  may  be  intrenched  or  strengthened  with  obstacles; 
but,  as  a  rule,  the  reserve  will  advance  to  reinforce  the  supports, 
and  the  intrenchments  sliould  be  on  the  line  of  resistance. 

Q.  What  rules  obtain  in  regard  to  the  men  and  horses  of 
the  reserve? 

A.  The  same  as  in  the  case  of  the  supports.  The  reserve  is 
allowed  to  light  fires;  and  in  the  exceptional  cases  where  fires 
are  prohibited  to  the  more  advanced  parties,  it  must  do  the 
cooking  for  them. 


FIG.  1 


PLATE  VI. 


LINE  OF  OBSERVATlON-2400  y^^ 


.>C' 


-V 


.--A* :f*- 


-A^.^ 


y    PICKETS  V  o         X    K 

^S^      SUPPORTS       •..-- 


RESERVE 


—   F/G.  2       

^^NE  OF  OBSERVATION.-2400  y^^ 

COSSACK        POSTS  ^^ 

"""''^4|£''       SUPPORTS       M,0^-J^"""' 


\  f 

\     / 

RESERVE 


54  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

Q.    When  may  the  reserve  be  dispensed  with? 

A.  In  the  case  of  a  small  force  which  can  prepare  quickly 
for  action,  or  when  the  main  body  bivouacs  in  order  of  battle, 
the  reserve  may  sometimes  be  dispensed  with. 

Q.  What  is  the  advantage  of  the  omission  of  the  reserve, 
and  why  can  it  but  rarely  be  omitted? 

A.  When  the  reserve  is  not  needed,  its  omission  greatly  re- 
lieves the  troops  from  the  pressure  of  outpost  duty;  but  it  can 
rarely  be  safely  omitted  from  the  composition  of  the  outpost. 
The  line  of  resistance  being  3,000  yards  from  the  main  body,  it 
is  evident  that,  unless  the  latter  were  in  a  state  of  instant  readi- 
ness, the  supports  might  be  overwhelmed  before  they  could  re- 
ceive assistance,  if  there  were  no  reserve.  To  keep  the  main 
body  in  such  a  state  of  readiness  Avould,  to  a  great  extent,  de- 
feat the  prime  object  of  the  outpost.  In  rare  cases,  where  the 
supports  occupy  a  very  strong  defensive  position,  and  the  main 
body  can  be  held  close  at  hand  sheltered  from  the  enemy's 
artillery  fire,  the  reserve  may  be  omitted. 

Q.    Are  compliments  paid  by  the  outpost? 

A.  No  compliments  are  paid  by  the  outpost;  but  when  a 
reserve,  support,  or  picket  is  approached  by  a  general  officer, 
the  commander  of  the  outpost,  or  an  armed  party,  the  men  fall 
in  in  rear  of  the  stacks,  ready  to  take  arms. 

The  Outpost  at  Night. 

Q.  What  is  the  obj(^ction  to  retaining  the  cordon  system  at 
night? 

A.  It  would  be  necessary  either  to  increase  the  num]^er  of 
sentinels  greatly,  thus  adding  to  the  burden  of  outpost  duty,  or 
else  to  draw  in  the  outpost  line  closer  to  the  main  body,  thus 
contracting  the  front.  The  greatest  objection  to  the  latter  alter- 
native is,  that  valuable  ground  would  thus  be  abandoned, 
which,  if  the  enemy  were  enterprising,  might  be  regained  only 


CATEGHItsM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  55 

at  the  cost  of  an  eng:agement.  '  If  it  can  be  avoided,  the  outpost 
line  must  never  be  drawn  in  at  night;  but  should  such  a  meas- 
ure become  necessary,  the  position  should  be  resumed  again  at 
early  dawn,  and  the  outpost  should  occupy  it  with  as  much 
caution  and  vigilance  as  when  it  was  first  taken  up. 

Q.  What  system  is  generally  adopted,  in  its  essential  feat- 
ures, at  night;  and  on  what  is  it  based? 

A.  The  outpost  system  of  Marshal  Bugeaud  is  generally 
adopted  in  its  essential  features  for  night.  This  is  based  on  the 
idea  that  in  making  a  night  attack,  in  any  but  an  exceptionally 
open  country,  the  enemy's  movements  must  necessarily  be  con- 
fined to  roads  and  clearly  defined  paths.  In  a  close  country 
movements  off  the  roads  can  not,  in  fact,  be  made  by  any  force 
larger  than  a  patrol;  while,  in  an  open  country,  roads  and 
paths  must  be  followed  for  guidance,  unless  the  ground  is  thor- 
oughly known  and  there  is  a  bright  moon.  The  uncertainty  of 
effecting  the  necessary  combinations  at  night,  and  the  danger 
of  columns  losing  their  way  and  not  arriving  at  appointeci  des- 
tinations at  the  proper  time,  render  night  attacks  in  force  very 
infrequent.  They  must,  however,  be  carefully  guarded  against; 
and  partial  attacks  for  the  purpose  of  alarming  the  outpost,  cap- 
turing sentinels  or  pickets,  or  reconnoitering  the  position,  must 
be  expected. 

Q.  Give  the  important  details  of  the  outpost  system  at 
night. 

A.  If  double  sentinels  are  placed  on  the  roads  and  paths, 
and  clos€'ly  backed  up  by  tlieir  reliefs,  the  advanced  posts  thus 
formed  will  give  timely  warning  of  the  enemy's  approach  in 
force.  But  the  inten'ening  ground  must  not  be  neglected,  or 
hostile  patrols  might  push  through  and  reconnoiter  the  posi- 
tion. The  ground  between  the  sentinels  is,  therefore,  tlior- 
oughly  patrolled,  the  number  of  men  available  for  this  purpose 
being  increased  by  the  diminution  of  the  number  of  sentinel 


56  C  ATE  CHIASM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

m 

posts.  Nothing  more  than  careful  observation  and  warning 
sliould  be  expected  of  the  advanced  posts,  the  duty  of  resistance 
falling  first  upon  the  pickets,  which  should  be  nearer  the  senti- 
nels at  night  than  during  the  day,  and  should  be  in  strong  de- 
fensive positions  on  the  roads,  in  rear  of  the  advanced  posts 
furnished  by  them. 

Q.  In  cavalry  outposts,  where  are  the  pickets  posted  at 
night,  and  what  precautions  are  taken? 

A.  In  cavalry  outposts,  the  pickets  are  placed  on  the  roads, 
double  vedettes  being  pushed  out  in  front.  The  picket  must  be 
on  the  alert  and  prepared  to  fight  on  foot.  Its  position  may  be 
strengthened  by  barricading  the  road;  but  care  must  be  taken 
to  leave  a  passage  by  which  the  vedettes  may  retire,  and  the 
barricade  must  not  be  so  constructed  as  to  prove  an  obstacle  to 
the  advance  of  the  troops  in  rear. 

Q.  When  the  enemy  is  close  at  hand  and  aggressive,  what 
may  sometimes  be  advisable? 

A.  When  the  enemy  is  close  at  hand  and  aggressive,  it  may 
sometimes  be  advisable,  in  addition  to  barring  his  advance  on 
the  main  roads,  to  post  a  cordon  of  sentinels  near  the  camp  or 
bivouac,  to  check  small  patrols  of  the  enemy,  which  might  oth- 
erwise annoy  and  alarm  the  main  body  and  destroy  its  repose. 
Asa  rule,  however,  patrolling  between  the  advanced  posts  Avill 
be  sufficient  to  check  such  hostile  parties. 

Q.  When  are  the  changes  in  the  position  of  the  outpost  ar- 
rnnged  and  made? 

A.  All  changes  in  the  position  of  the  outpost  must  be  ar- 
ranged during  daylight,  and  made  at  late  dusk.  Even  if  the 
cordon  system  is  retained  and  the  line  is  not  drawn  in,  the  posi- 
tions of  the  sentinels  and  pickets  should  be  changed,  in  order  to 
prevent  their  possil)le  capture  by  the  eneiny,  who  may  have 
noted  their  iDositions  during  the  day. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  57 

Q.  What  change  is  made  in  the  positions  of  the  sentinels 
for  night? 

A.  The  sentinels,  who  are  habitually  posted  on  high  ground 
during  the  daj^  should  be  moved  to  lower  ground  at  night,  so  as 
to  bring  an  approaching  enemy  in  view  on  the  sky  line.  As  a 
rule,  the  sentinels  should  be  pushed  forward  from  the  high 
ground  rather  than  drawn  back,  in  order  to  retain  possession  of 
the  ridge. 


Outpost  Patrols. 

Q.    Of  what  two  kinds  are  the  outpost  patrols? 

A.    Visiting  patrols  and  reconnoitering  patrols. 

Q.    Describe  the  composition  and  duties  of  a  visiting  patrol. 

A.  Visiting  patrols  usually  consist  of  a  non-commissioned 
officer  and  two  or  three  men.  They  are  sent  out  from  the  picket, 
and  keep  up  communication  between  it  and  its  sentinels  and  de- 
tached posts,  the  neighboring  pickets,  and  the  support.  They 
examine  any  suspicious  points  which  the  sentinel  can  not  in- 
spect without  going  too  far  away  from  his  post,  take  charge  of 
persons  detained  by  the  sentinels,  and  relieve  any  sentinel  who 
may  be  sick  or  wounded. 

Q.    How  does  the  patrol  habitually  make  its  rounds? 

A.  In  making  its  rounds  the  patrol  first  touches  upon  the 
nearest  sentinel  of  the  picket  on  its  right  (or  left),  and  then 
passes  along  the  front  of  its  own  sentinels  to  the  nearest  senti- 
nel of  the  picket  on  its  left  (or  right),  returning  by  the  rear  to  its 
own  picket.  The  patrol  (especially  if  composed  of  cavalry) 
may  often  find  it  expedient,  as  a  means  of  concealment,  to  pass 
in  rear  of  the  sentinels. 

Q.  When  are  visiting  patrols  mainly  used,  what  extent  of 
front  do  they  cover,  and  how  far  to  the  front  do  they  go? 


58  CAT  ECU  IBM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

A.  Visiting  patrols  are  mainly  used  at  night.  When  the 
sentinels  can  be  seen  from  the  picket,  the  patrol  would  not  ordi- 
narily make  the  rounds,  during  the  day,  oftener  than  once  each 
relief.  At  night,  the  patrol  should  not  cover  a  front  of  more 
than  500  yards  in  its  operations.  When  the  picket  is  weak,  the 
reliefs  nmst  be  used  as  visiting  patrols. 

Q.    What  is  the  object  of  recounoiteriug  patrols? 

A.  The  sentinels  guard  against  siu-prise,  but  the  informa- 
tion they  can  gain  in  regard  to  the  enemy  is  generally  very 
slight.  This  information  must  be  sought  by  reconnoitering 
patrols  sent  out  towards  the  enemy,  to  watch  his  movements, 
and,  if  possible,  examine  his  position. 

Q.  What  is  the  size  of  reconnoitering  patrols,  and  how  far 
do  they  go  beyond  the  line  of  sentinels? 

A.  Reconnoitering  patrols  are  either  small  or  stromj.  A 
small  patrol  varies  in  size  from  three  men  to  a  squad.  If  com- 
posed of  infantry,  it  should  not,  as  a  rule,  advance  more  than 
half  a  mile  beyond  the  line  of  sentinels  at  night;  in  daytime  it 
may  often  prudently  advance  farther.  Cavalry  is  generally 
used  for  this  duty  by  day,  and  may  push  out  five  or  ten  miles, 
or  even  farther,  according  to  the  discretion  of  the  patrol  com- 
mander. The  patrol  should  go  far  enough  to  see  the  enemy's 
sentinels,  if  not  too  distant,  and  may  even  penetrate  his  line  .of 
observation.  When  bicyclists  are  with  a  command,  they  could 
be  used  for  distant  patrolling,  and  on  good  roads  would  have  ad- 
vantages over  horsemen  in  swiftness  and  secrecy  of  movement. 

Q.  What  patrols  should  be  used  at  night,  and  what  must 
be  constantly  varied  in  regard  to  them? 

A.  It  is  a  good  rule  to  use  at  night  the  patrols  that  have 
scouted  the  same  region  by  day.  The  time,  direction,  and  man- 
ner of  sending  out  patrols  must  be  constantly  varied,  in  order 
that  the  enemy  may  not  be  prepared  to  cut  them  off.  A  small 
patrol  must  constan1;ly  bear  in  mind  that  its  business  is  not  to 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  59 

tight,  but  to  observe.  Tt  should  accordingly  be  careful  to  avoid 
eug-agements,  unless  ordered  to  take  prisoners. 

Q.  When  is  tlie  6.uty  of  a  reconnoitering  patrol  best  per- 
formed ? 

A.  When  it  comes  baclv  with  valuable  information  without 
having  been  seen  by  the  enemy. 

Q.    What  are  patrolling  posts? 

A.  They  are  small  patrols,  of  four  men  each,  which  are 
sometimes  used  at  night  instead  of  the  advanced  posts  in  front 
of  the  pickets. 

Q.    How  does  the  patrolling  post  preform  its  duties? 

A.  Tt  nmst  not  leave  the  road  or  path  assigned  to  it;  but  it 
may  either  keep  moving  or  remain  stationary  at  the  distance 
to  which  it  is  ordered  to  patrol.  In  the  latter  case  a  sentinel 
or  vedette  is  posted  and  the  rest  of  the  patrol  remains  near  at 
hand  and  well  concealed.  The  members  of  the  patrolling  post 
nmst  preserve  the  strictest  silence  and  must  not  smoke  or  light 
fires.  The  sentinel  is  relieved  every  half -hour,  and  the  patrol- 
ling post  every  three  hours. 

Q.  If  the  number  of  patrolling  posts  is  such  as  to  weaken 
the  picket  materially,  what  must  be  done? 

A.  The  support  must  then  be  moved  up  close  enough  to  it 
to  render  prompt  assistance;  or,  if  this  can  not  be  done  without 
abandoning  a  strong  position  for  a  weaker  one,  the  support 
must  send  reinforcements  to  the  picket,  and  draw  corresponding- 
reinforcements  from  the  reserve. 

Q.  From  what  part  of  the  outpost  are  strong  patrols  taken, 
and  how  do  they  vary  in  size? 

A.  They  ai'e  generally  taken  from  the  support  or  reserve. 
They  var;\'  in  size  from  nine  men  to  a  company  or  troop;  and 
if  composed  of  less  than  two  s(iuads,  may  be  taken  from  a 
picket. 


60  CATECHTHM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

Q.  How  far  from  the  lino  of  sentinels  may  a  strong  patrol 
advance,  and  liow  may  it  sometimes  be  used? 

A.  As  a  rule,  the  movements  of  a  strong  patrol  are  not  so 
cautious  as  those  of  a  small  one.  Its  object  is  to  gain  informa- 
tion that  can  not  be  acquired  by  sentinels  or  small  patrols.  It 
rarely  goes  more  than  a  mile  and  a  half  from  the  line  of  senti- 
nels, and  if  composed  of  infantry,  it  should  have  one  or  two 
mounted  men  (or  cyclists,  in  suitable  country)  with  it  to  insure 
the  rapid  transmission  of  intelligence  back  to  the  outpost.  If 
the  patrols  return  without  reporting  anything,  vigilance  must 
not  be  relaxed;  for  it  is  possible  for  patrols  to  take  a  wrong 
direction,  or  to  pass  close  to  the  enemy  without  discovering 
him. 

Q.    Are  patrols  of  frequent  or  only  of  occasional  use? 

A.  As  a  rvde,  patrols  are  frequent;  aijd  when  the  enemy  is 
in  force  and  close  at  hand,  they  are  constant. 

Posting  •  the   Outpost. 

Q.  With  what  should  the  men  detailed  for  outpost  duty  be 
supplied  ? 

A.  They  should  have  a  proper  supply  of  ammunition,  and 
(when  practicable)  one  day's  cooked  rations.  Their  canteens 
should  be  filled  with  coffee. 

Q.  What  should  each  officer  detailed  for  outpost  duty  have? 
—each  non-commissioned  officer? 

A.  Each  officer  should  have  a  watch,  compass,  field-glass, 
memorandum  pad  and  lead-pencil;  and,  if  possible,  he  should  be 
provided  with  a  topographical  map  of  the  ground  to  be  occupied 
by  the  outpost.  Every  non-commissioned  officer  should  have  a 
lead-pencil  and  a  small  memorandum  pad. 

Q.  How  is  the  posting  of  the  outpost,  both  infantry  and 
cavalry,  conducted? 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  61 

A.  The  troops  detailed  having  been  inspected,  and  the 
subordinate  officers  having  taken  down  in  writing  the  instruc- 
tions of  the  outpost  commander  (if  time  admits),  the  force 
moves  out,  with  an  advance  guard,  to  take  up  the  designated 
positions.  The  reserve  and  supports  may  each  march  inde- 
pendently from  camp  directly  to  its  position;  or  they  may 
march  together  and  be  detached  from  the  column  at  suitable 
points.  Each  body  moves  to  its  position  cover'^d  by  a  point  and 
flanking  groups,  and  the  pickets  especially  move  with  extreme 
vigilance.  When  the  picket  is  halted,  slightly  in  rear  of  the 
selected  line  of  observation,  two  or  more  squads  are  deployed 
as  skirmishers,  with  suflicient  intervals  to  enable  their  front  to 
cover  approximately  the  front  of  the  sentinels  of  the  picket,  and 
are  pushed  forward  cautiously  to  reconnoiter,  being  followed 
by  the  first  relief  of  sentinels.  The  picket  commander  halts  on 
the  line  of  observation,  and  the  skirmishers  move  «n  to  recon- 
noiter in  its  front,  not  going  farther  than  100  yards  if  the  coun- 
try is  close  or  wooded.  AVhen  the  relief  comes  up,  the  picket 
commander  posts  the  sentinels  quickly,  the  posts  afterwards 
being  changed  as  may  be  required.  Any  tree,  building,  hay- 
stack, or  other  object  affording  a  good  view  should  be  occupied 
at  once  as  a  lookout  by  two  men,  one  of  whom  should,  if  prac- 
ticable, be  provided  with  a  field-glass.  As  soon  as  the  sentinels 
have  been  tentatively  posted,  the  skirmishers  are  recalled  and 
sent  back  to  the  picket;  after  which  the  picket  commander 
touches  upon  the  nearest  sentinel  of  the  picket  on  his  right  (or 
left),  and  passes  along  his  own  line  of  observation  to  the  near- 
est sentinel  of  the  picket  on  his  left  (or  right).  He  assures  him- 
self that  his  sentinels  are  in  positions  best  suited  for  observa- 
tion and  concealment,  sees  that  the  number  of  posts  does  not 
exceed  the  requirements  of  efficient  observation,  and  then  re- 
turns to  his  picket.  He  then  posts  such  connecting  and  picket 
sentinels  and  detached  posts  as  may  be  necessary,  details  a  por- 


62    '  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

tion  of  the  picket  for  patrol  duty,  orders  the  picket  to  stack 
arms  and  fall  out,  and  sends  to  the  commander  of  the  outpost 
or  section  a  report  of  his  position  and  dispositions,  accompanied, 
if  practicable,  with  a  hasty  sketch  or  map  of  the  same. 

Q.    After  the  picket  is  posted,  what  does  its  commander  do? 

A.  After  the  picket  commander  has  sent  in  his  first  report, 
he  visits  his  detached  posts,  and  makes  such  inspection  of  the 
ground  as  may  be  necessary  to  familiarize  him  with  the  roads, 
paths,  and  other  topographical  features  of  his  position,  but 
should  not  go  beyond  reach  of  his  picket.  If  he  has  not  a  map 
of  the  position,  be  should  make  or  have  made  as  good  a  one  as 
lie  can  for  reference,  report,  and  giving  instructions  to  subordi- 
nates. If  streams  or  other  obstacles  exist  in  front  of  his  posi- 
tion, he  ascertains  at  what  points  they  are  passable;  and  he 
Qiust  satisfy  himself  that  the  picket  occupies  a  post  fulfilling 
as  far  as  pdlsible,  the  requirements  already  set  forth.  He  take* 
such  measures  in  regard  to  strengthening  his  position  as  may  be 
required  by  circumstances  and  be  in  consonance  with  orders 
received  by  him.  He  must  be  especially  careful  to  see  that  the 
picket  post  at  night  is  prepared  for  a  stubborn  defence;  and  he 
nuist,  at  all  times,  consider  what  he  would  do  in  case  of  attack. 

Q.  As  soon  as  the  outpost  is  in  position,  and  while  taking 
l)osition,  what  should  all  the  officers,  non-couimissioned  otficers, 
and  privates  do? 

A.  All,  especially  the  officers  and  non-commissioned  offi- 
cers, should  note  carefully  the  ground  in  the  vicinity.  No  mem- 
ber of  the  outpost  can  know  too  much  on  this  point. 

Q.  When,  at  the  close  of  the  day's  march,  the  advance 
guard  forms  the  outpost,  wliat  portions  of  it  constitute  the  vari- 
ous parts  of  the  outpost? 

A.  The  advance  party  then  furnishes  the  pickets  and  senti- 
nels (being  reinforced,  if  necessary,  from  the  support  until  the 
two  bodies  are  equal  in  strength);  the  support  furnishes  the  sup- 


CATECUISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  •    63 

ports;  and  the  reserve  constitutes  the  reserve  of  the  outpost. 
When  the  place  for  camp  or  bivouac  is  selected,  the  advance 
guard  marches  to  its  post  as  an  outpost  in  the  same  general 
manner  as  though  detailed  from  camp. 

Q.  Whenever  practicable,  what  should  be  done  to  make  an 
equitable  division  of  sentinel  duty? 

A.  Whenever  practicable,  the  outpost  should  be  divided 
into  three  equal  parts,  which  should  so  relieve  each  other  as  to 
make  an  equitable  division  of  the  duty  on  the  line  of  observa- 
tion. At  the  end  of  each  eight  hours  the  reserve  should  take  the 
place  of  the  support,  the  support  should  relieve  the  pickets,  and 
the  latter  should  march  back  and  unite  at  the  position  of  the  re- 
serve. To  equalize  the  burden  of  sentinel  duty,  it  might  often  be 
expedient  to  change  the  typical  formation  as  given  in  Plate  IV. 
so  as  to  have  one  entire  battalion  in  each  line. 

The  Defence  of  the  Outpost. 

Q.    How  is  the  defence  of  an  outpost  conducted? 

A.  The  outpost  should,  as  a  rule,  avoid  unnecessary  move- 
ments tending  to  bring  on  an  engagement;  but  if  attacked,  it 
should  resist  stubbornly,  in  order  to  give  the  main  body  time 
to  prepare  for  action.  The  chief  resistance  is  generally  made 
on  the  line  of  supports,  though  in  some  cases  it  may  be  best  for 
the  supports  to  advance  to  the  line  of  pickets.  In  the  former 
case,  the  picket  usually  deploys  as  skirmishers,  and  advances 
to  reinforce  the  line  of  sentinels;  the  whole  line  then  falling 
back  slowly  upon  the  supports,  taking  advantage  of  every  de- 
fensive feature  of  the  ground,  and  fighting  resolutely.  In  order 
that  the  fire  of  the  support  may  not  be  masked,  the  pickets  will 
direct  their  retreat  upon  its  flanks,  instead  of  falling  directly 
back  upon  it.  The  skirmishers  then  form  on  a  line  with  the 
skirmishers  of  the  support.    In  the  latter  case,  the  pickets  should 


64     ^  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

be  intrenched.  The  sentinels  fall  back  upon  them,  moving  to- 
wards their  flanks  to  unmask  their  fire;  and  the  sui3ports  are 
brought  up  and  deployed  in  the  intervals  between  the  pickets. 
In  either  case,  the  reserve  is  brought  up  to  reinforce  the  troops 
in  front,  as  soon  as  the  nature  and  direction  of  the  attack  be- 
come apparent. 

Q.  If  the  enemy  is  repulsed,  by  whom,  and  to  what  extent, 
is  pursuit  made? 

A.  In  case  the  enemy  is  repulsed,  the  infantry  should  re- 
sume its  former  positions,  but  should  not  ordinarily  pursue. 
The  cavalry  should  send  out  patrols  to  discover  where  the  ene- 
mj^  halted.  These  patrols  should  beware  of  ambuscade,  and 
must  not  push  beyond  an  indicated  distance.  When  the  out- 
post is  composed  of  infantry  alone,  small  detachments  deployed 
as  skirmishers  may  sometimes  be  sent  in  pursuit,  but  the  out- 
post must  not  be  much  weakened  for  this  purpose. 

Q.  Soon  after  the  repulse  of  the  attack,  what  should  be 
done? 

A.  The  pickets  and  supports  should  shift  their  positions 
(unless  by  so  doing  it  would  be  necessary  to  abandon  strong 
points),  in  order  to  deprive  the  enemy  of  profiting  by  the  knowl- 
edge of  the  position  gained  by  attacking. 

Q.  When  knowledge  of  the  enemy's  approach  is  gained  in 
time  to  admit  of  full  preparation,  how  should  he  be  received,  and 
why? 

A.  He  should  be  received  with  volleys.  This  w^ould  enable 
the  officers  to  keep  the  troops  better  in  hand,  and  would  have 
a  desirable  moral  effect  on  the  enemy,  as  volleys  may  be  re- 
garded as  an  indication  of  coolness  and  readiness  on  the  part 
of  the  troops  delivering  them. 

Q.    When  should  the  pickets  be  under  arms,  and  why  ? 

A.  They  should  be  under  arms  an  hour  before  daybreak,  as 
an  attack  is  most  likely  to  occur  at  dawn. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  65 

Relieving  the  Outpost. 

Q.    When  is  the  outpost  relieved,  and  why  at  this  time? 

A.  The  outpost  is  relieved  at  daybreak,  in  order  that  there 
may  be  double  strength  on  the  outpost  line  at  the  time  when  an 
attack  is  most  to  be  feared. 

Q.    Describe  the  manner  of  relieving  the  outpost. 

A.  Tlie  new  reserve  marches  to  tlie  post  of  the  old  one, 
where  both  rest  with  arms  stacked,  and  the  new  commander 
receives  from  the  old  all  information  possessed  by  the  latter  in 
regard  to  the  enemy,  and  the  standing  orders  for  the  reserve. 
Each  support  marches  to  the  post  of  the  support  which  it  is  to 
relieve,  and  both  supports  rest,  while  information  and  orders 
are  turned  over  as  in  the  case  of  the*  reserves  When  a  new 
picket  arrives  to  relieve  an  old  one,  each  stands  at  ease  while 
the  new  and  the  old  commanders  visit  the  sentinel's  posts  to 
gether,  folloAved  by  the  first  relief  from  the  new  picket.  The 
old  commander  points  out  to  the  new  the  important  topograph- 
ical features  of  the  vicinity,  and  the  known  or  suspected  posi- 
tions of  the  hostile  posts;  and.  gives  him  all  the  information 
that  has  been  gained  in  regard  to  the  enemy.* 

When  the  old  sentinels  and  detached  posts  have  been  re- 
lieved, the  commander  of  the  old  picket  (unless  there  appears 
to  be  danger  of  an  attack)  sends  in  a  written  report  to  the  com- 
mander of  the  outpost  or  section,  and  marches  his  picket  back 
to  its  support.  As  soon  as  the  supportjtias  been  joined  by  its 
pickets,  it  marches  back  to  its  reserve,  and  the  entire  old  out- 
post returns  to  camp;  or  each  support  may  march  directly  back 
to  camp  as  soon  as  it  is  joined  by  its  pickets.  If,  while  the  old 
outpost,  or  any  part  of  it,  is  returning,  the  enemy  should  attack. 


■'■■  There  is  a  complete  absen-^e  of  ceremonv  in  relieving  an  outpost 
There  is  no  position  prescribed  for  the  new  reserve,  supports,  or  pickets. 
They  rest  solely  to  avoid  fatigue,  and  the  pickets  'stand  at  ease  merely  to 
insure  silence. 


66  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

it  must  be  at  once  marched  back  to  the  assistance  of  the  new 
outpost. 

Q.    How  often  are  outposts  relieved  ? 

A.  As  a  rule,  outposts  should  be  relieved  every  twenty-four 
hours.  With  cavalry  this  is  necessary;  but  in  the  case  of  in- 
fantry, if  the  enemy  is  not  near  and  enterprising,  it  may  some- 
times be  advisable  to  keep  the  same  troops  on  outpost  duty  for 
forty  eight  hours,  if  the  command  remains  in  camp. 

Q.  If  the  army  is  on  the  march,  when  is  the  outpost  re- 
lieved? 

A.  As  soon  as  the  advance  guard  has  passed  the  chain  of 
sentinels.  The  pickets  will  not,  as  a  rule,  fall  back  to  the  sup- 
ports, but  will  join  them  at  some  designated  point  on  the  line 
of  march,  in  order  to  save  the  fatigued  men  from  unnecessary 
marching.  The  reserve  follows  the  rear  of  the  column,  and  the 
supports  and  pickets,  united  at  designated  rendezvous,  form  the 
rear  guard  of  the  column. 

Q.    If  the  army  is  retreating,  what  does  the  outpost  form? 

A.  If  the  army  is  retreating,  the  outpost  each  day  (when 
practicable)  forms  the  rear  guard.  The  manner  of  relieving  the 
outpost  in  this  case  is  considered  in  the  chapter  on  Rear  Guards. 

RECONNAISSANCE.  ,. 

Q.    What  is  the  object  of  reconnaissance? 

A.  To  gain  a  knowledge  of  the  strength,  position,  and  prob- 
able designs  of  the  enemy,  upon  which  the  commander  can 
base  his  own  plans. 

Q.  Under  what  three  heads  may  reconnaissance  be  con- 
sidered ? 

A.    1.  Reconnaissance  in  force; 

2.  Special  reconnaissance; 

3.  Patrolling.     * 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  67 

Q,  By  whose  order,  and  how,  is  a  reconnaissance  in  force 
made? 

A.  Reconnaissances  in  force  are  made  only  by  the  orders- 
of  the  commander-in-chief,  and  the  force  employed  generally 
consists  of  all  three  arms.  They  are  often  made  just  before  an 
action,  for  tlie  purpose  of  discovering  the  enemy's  strength  and 
dispositions,  and  frequently  lead  to  a  battle.  The  reconnais- 
sance is  conducted  in  the  same  general  manner  as  a  regular 
attack.  Efforts  are  made,  while  driving  in  the  enemy's  pickets, 
to  capture  prisoners.  Staff  officers,  advancing  witli  the  skir- 
mishers, rapidly  sketch  the  different  features  of  the  enemy's 
position,  and  note  his  apparent  strength. at  different  points. 

Q  ^^''lIat  arms  are  especially  valuable  in  a  reconnaissance 
in  force,  and  why? 

A.  Cavalry  and  horse  artillery  are  especiallj'  valuable  in  a 
roconnaissnnce  in  force,  as  they  can  be  withdrawn  from  action 
more  easily  than  infantry;  and  it  would  be  well  to  limit  the 
rocounai^sMuce  to  these  two  arms  when  tliey  are  in  ample  force, 
and  ( iiT-umstances  render  their  action  sufficient.  To  be  success- 
ful, hovvever,  a  reconnaissance  in  force  should  impose  upon  the 
enemy  the  belief  that  he  is  encountering  a  real  attack;  and 
this  consideration  will  determine  the  kind  of  troops  to  employ 
and  the  hour  at  which  the  attack  should  be  made.  If  infantry 
be  employed  in  the  attack,  it  will  be  hard  to  break  off  the  action; 
but  if  it  be  not  employed,  it  will  generally  be  manifest  that  the 
attack  is  not  serious. 

Q.  What  are  the  advantages  and  disTidvantages  of  making 
a  reconnai sauce  in  force  in  the  evening,  and  what  in  the 
morning  ? 

A.  If  it  be  made  late  in  the  afternoon,  the  troops  may  be 
withdrawn  under  cover  of  the  darkness;  but  if  made  at  that 
h^ur,  the  enemy  will  probably  suspect  the  true  nature  of  the 
operation.    If  made  in  the  morning,  the  enemy  will  doubtlesg 


68  GATEGHWM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

believe  it  to  be  a  serious  attack;  but  it  may  very  easily  precipi- 
tate a  battle. 

Q.  To  what  three  serious  objections  js  a  reconnaissance  in 
force  open  ? 

A.  1.  It  often  results  in  committing  the  troops  so  completely 
to  action  as  to  bring  on  a  battle  through  the  necessity  of  bringing 
up  other  troops  to  their  assistance. 

2.  The  withdrawal  of  the  troops  in  pm'suance  to  the  general 
plan  of  the  reconnaissance  may  often  present  the  appearance  of 
defeat,  and  thus  injure  the  moral  of  the  army. 

3.  It  is  always  a  costly  means  of  gaining  information. 

Special  Reconnaissance. 

Q.    What  IB  a  special  reconnaissance? 

A.  Reconnaissances  of  this  class  have  some  limited  and 
definite  object  in  view:  to  discover  whether  a  certain  point  is 
occupied  in  force  by  the  enemy;  whether  a  bridge  is  broken,  or 
a  defile  is  fortified;  to  capture  a  picket,  with  a  view  to  gaining 
information;  or  to  attack  a  post  for  the  purpose  of  discovering 
the  intentions  or  moral  of  the  enemy. 

Q.    How  is  a  special  reconnaissance  conducted? 

A.  Tlie  manner  of  conducting  a  special  reconnaissance  de- 
pends upon  its  object  and  the  circumstances  under  which  it  is 
conducted.  A  good  rule  in  one  case  might  be  a  fatal  guide  in 
another.  It  may  be  effected  secretly,  by  a  bold  attack  on  a 
picket,  by  personal  daring,  or  by  any  means  which  will  carry 
out  the  object  in  view. 

Q.    How  is  an  attempt  upon  a  hostile  picket  carried  out? 

A.  In  an  attempt  upon  a  picket  of  the  enemy,  the  most 
favorable  place  for  crossing  his  line  of  sentiijf^is  is  sought  out, 
and  the  necessary  dispositions  are  made,  before  dark;  tBe 
attack  being  made  at  night  or  at  late  dusk.    The  great  object  of 


CATECHISM  OF  OUT^pST  DUTY.  69 

the  attack  is,  of  course,  to  captui-e  prisoners,  with  a  view  to  ob- 
taining information  from  them.  The  prisoners  are  hurried 
away,  and  the  reconnoiteriug  force  makes  its  retreat  without 
delay. 

Q.  How  may  a  force  employed  on  a  special  reconnaissance 
vary  in  size? 

A.  The  force  employed  in  a  special  reconnaissance  varies 
in  size  from  a  company  or  troop  to  a  division.  The  dividing 
line  between  a  special  reconnaissance  and  a  reconnaissance  in 
force  is  often  very  dim,  and  in  many  cases  the  same  operation 
could  be  designated  by  either  term. 

Patrolling. 

Q.  How  are  patrols  primarily  divided,  and  how  does  each 
vary  in  size? 

A.  Patrols  are  divided  into  small  patrols  and  strong  patrols. 
A  strong  patrol  varies  in  strength  from  nine  men  to  a  troop  of 
cavalry  or  a  company  of  infantry.  A  small  patrol  varies  from 
three  men  to  a  squad.  A  patrol  should  never  consist  of  less 
than  three  men;  for  if  it  were  composed  of  only  two,  it  would 
be  impossible  to  send  back  a  report  of  anything  seen  or  heard, 
without  leaving  one  man  alone,  without  support,  in  the  prox- 
imity of  the  enemy. 

Q.  Patrols  are  also  classified  as  what  kinds?  State  briefly 
the  duties  of  each. 

A.  In  our  service,  patrols  are  also  classified  as  officers^  re- 
connoiterinff,  visiting,  covering  (fianking),  and  connecting  patrols. 
To  these  may  be  added  exploring,  harassing,  expeditionary,  and 
pursuing  patrols.  The  classification  into  small  and  strong 
patrols  is  the  important  one;  for  without  changing  its  size, 
and  without  material  modification  of  its  methods,  the  patrol  mav 
combine  the  functions  of  several  of  the  different  kinds  of  patrols 


70  CATECHISM*  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

contained  in  the  second  classification.  In  fact,  the  latter  classi- 
fication is  mainly  for  convenience  of  description. 

Q.  State  what  should  be  reported  by  an  exploring  patrol 
in  regard  to  the  following:  roads,  railroads,  bridges,  rivers, 
woods,  canals,  telegraphs,  villages,  defiles,  ponds  and  marshes, 
springs  and  rivulets,  valleys,  heights. 

A.  Roads. — Their  direction;  tlieir  nature  (macadamized, 
corduroy,  plank,  "dirt,"  etc.);  their  condition  of  repair;  their 
grade;  the  nature  of  lateral  roads,  and  the  points  where  they 
leave  the  main  road;  their  borders  (woods,  hedges,  fences,  or 
ditches);  the  places  at  w^hich  they  pass  through  defiles,  across 
heights  or  rivers,  and  where  they  intersect  railroads;  their 
breadth  (whether  suitable  to  column  of  fom's  or  of  platoons, 
etc.). 

Railroads.— Their  direction;  the  number  of  tracks,  stations, 
and  junctions;  their  grade;  the  nature  of  the  cuts,  embank- 
ments, and  tunnels. 

Bridges.— Their  position;  their  width  and  length;  their 
construction  (wood,  brick,  stone,  or  iron);  the  roads  and  ap- 
proaches on  each  bank. 

Rivers  (and  other  Streams).— Their  direction,  width,  and 
depth;  the  rapidity  of  the  current;  liability  to  sudden  rises 
and  extreme  fluctuations  in  depth,  as  indicated  by  driftwood, 
etc.;  fords;  the  nature  of  the  banks;  kind,  position,  and  num- 
ber of  islands  at  suitable  points  of  passage;  heights  in  the 
vicinity  and  their  command  over  the  banks. 

TFoo^s.— Their  situation,  extent,  and  shape;  whether  clear 
or  containing  underbrush;  the  number  and  extent  of  "clear- 
ings"; whether  cut  up  by  ravines,  or  containing  marshes,  etc.; 
nature  of  roads  penetrating  them. 

Canals.— Their  direction,  width,  and  depth;  condition  of 
towpath;  locks,  and  means  for  protecting  or  destroying  them. 


CATKCUISSM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  71 

TcJrgraphs.— Whether  they  follow  railroads  or  common  roads; 
stations;  number  of  wires. 

Villages.— Their  situation  (on  a  height,  in  a  valley,  or  on  a 
plain);  nature  of  the  surrounding  country;  construction  of  the 
houses;  nature  and  width  of  the  streets;   means  of  defense. 

Defiles.— Their  direction;  whetlier  straight  or  crooked; 
whetlier  heights  on  eitlier  side  are  accessible  or  inaccessible; 
nature  of  ground  at  each  extremity;  width  (frontage  of  column 
that  can  pass  through). 

Ponds  and  il/f/r.s//f,5.— Means  of  crossing;  defensive  use  that 
might  be  made  of  them  as  obstacles  against  enemy;  whether 
the  marshy  grounds  are  practicable  for  any  or  all  arms. 

Springs  and  Rivulets. — Nature  of  approaches;  whether  water 
is  drinlvable  and  abundant. 

Valleys. — Extent  and  nature;  towns,  villages,  hamlets, 
streams,  roads,  and  paths  therein;  obstacles  offered  by,  or  in, 
the  valley  to  the  movements  of  troops. 

Heights. — Whether  slopes  are  easy  or  steep;  whether  good 
defensive  positions  are  offered;  whether  plateau  is  wide  or  nar- 
row; whether  passages  are  easy  or  difficult;  Avhether  the 
ground  is  broken  or  smooth,  wooded  or  clear. 

Cultivated  0 round. —'Nature  of  cultivation  and  kind  of  crops. 

Q.    When  should  the  report  of  the  patrol  be  sent  in? 

A.  The  report  should  be  renderedas  quicklyas  possibleafter 
the  return  of  the  patrol,  accompanied,  when  practicable,  with 
a  map. 

Q.    What  should  a  patrol  of  any  nature  always  do? 

A.  A  patrol  of  any  natm*e  should  endeavor  to  note  care- 
fully the  different  features  of  the  ground  over  which  it  passes, 
whether  required  to  make  a  report  or  not.  In  every  case  a  rail- 
road, emhanlment,  a  ditcli.  or  any  otiier  ohjerf  that  wonld  fnrni.^h  a 
good,  defensive  position  should  he  noted.  Good  camping-places 
should  also  always  be  noted  by  exploring  patrols. 


72  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

Q.    AVhat  are  reconnoiteriug  patrols? 

A.  Rcconnoitcr'uKj  patrols  are  used  to  recounoiter  the  posi- 
tion and  watcli  tlie  movements  of  tlie  enemy. 

Q/  What  are  liarassing  patrols? 

A.  Harassiiuj  patrols  are  for  the  purpose  of  disturbing  and 
annoying  the  enemy,  and  thus  depriving  him  of  sleep  and  rest. 

Q.    Wliat  are  expeditionary  patrols? 

A.  Expeditionary  patrols  have  for  their  mission  the  capture 
of  sentinels  or  patrols,  or  the  destruction  of  roads,  railroads,  or 
telegraphs. 

Q.    What  are  connecting  patrols? 

A?  Connecting  patrols  are  used  to  preserve  communication 
between  columns  of  troops  on  the  march  or  between  different 
bodies  in  battle. 

Q.    What  are  pursuing  patrols? 

A.  Pursuing  patrols  hang  upon  a  retreating  enemy,  and 
render  prompt  information  as  to  his  movements,  location,  and 
moral. 

Q.    What  is  tlie  size  of  the  different  kinds  of  i>titrols? 

A.  Exploring,  reconnoitering,  harassing,  expeditionary,  and 
pursuing  patrols  may  be  either  strong  or  small;  connecting  pa- 
trols are  always  strong. 

Q.  What  arm  is  generally  best  suited  to  patroUing,  and 
why  is  the  union  of  infantry  and  cavalry  on  this  duty  not 
desirable? 

A.  Cavalry  is  the  arm  par  arcellence  for  patrolling.  The 
composition  of  the  patrol  will,  however,  depend  upon  the  ground 
to  be  reconnoitered,  the  distance  to  which  the  reconnaissance 
is  to  be  extended,  and  the  hour  at  which  the  patrol  is  sent  out. 
The  union  of  infantry  and  cavalry  seems  of  doubtful  value 
in  any  case,  and  worse  than  useless  when  the  cavalry  can 
take  care  of  itself  with  its  own  fire  action.  Infantry  is 
preferable  to  cavalry  for  patrolling  only  at  night,  or  in  a 
very  close  and   broken  counti*y.        It  is   often   advisable  to 


CATECHIHM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  73 

attach  a  few  troopers  to  an  infantry  patrol  merely  as  mounted 
orderlies,  but  no  further  union  of  the  two  arms  on  this  service 
should  ordinarily  be  contemplated.  When  bicyclists  are  with 
a  command,  they  will,  on  good  roads,  be  valuable  for  patrolling. 

Small  Infantry  Patrols. 

Q.    What  is  the  composition  of  a  small  infantry  patrol? 

A.  Experienced  soldiers  should  be  detailed,  and  if  no  non- 
commissioned officer  is  available,  an  intelligent  private  should 
be  selected  to  command  the  patrol,  and  the  others  ordered  to 
obey  him.  It  is  desirable  that  at  least  one  member  of  the  patrol 
should  be  able  to  speak  the  language  of  the  country  in  which 
the  army  is  operating. 

Q.    How  should  the  patrol  be  instructed? 

A.  The  patrol  commander  should  be  given  clear  and  defi- 
nite instructions  in  regard  to  the  duty  to  be  performed,  and  he 
should  be  required  to  repeat  them  to  the  members  of  the  patrol 
in  the  presence  of  the  officer  giving  them.  These  instructions 
should  inform  him  of  the  object  of  the  reconnaissance,  what  is 
known  about  the  enemy,  the  nature  of  the  ground  to  be  recon- 
noitered,  whether  he  is  to  reconnoiter  in  one  direction  or  in 
several,  how  long  he  is  to  remain  out,  where  his  reports  are  to 
be  stot,  and,  if  other  patrols  are  sent  out  at  the  same  time,  the 
particular  route  which  he  is  to  follow.  The  patrol  commander 
must  be  sure  that  he  understands  his  instructions.  If  he  has 
the  slightest  doubt  about  it,  he  must  ask  for  a  repetition. 

Q.    How  should  the  pati'ol  be  inspected? 

A.  The  patrol  commander  inspects  the  patrol,  being  careful 
that  each  man  has  the  proper  amount  of  ammunition,  and  that 
none  are  sick,  intoxicated,  or  foot-sore.  If  any  man  has  a  cold 
which  causes  him  to  cough,  he  must  be  replaced  by  another  man, 
even  though  he  be  not  on  sick  report.    The  patrol  commander 


74  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

also  sees  that  tlie  arms  and  accouterments  of  his  men  are  so 
arranged  as  neither  to  rattle  nor  to  glisten  in  the  sunlight.  He 
also  points  out  to  the  members  of  the  patrol  the  positions  of 
troops  of  their  own  army,  and  a  place  of  assembly  for  men  who 
may  be  detached. 

Q.    What  signals  should  be  used  by  patrols? 

A.  In  addition  to  the  signals  described  in  the  Drill  Regula- 
tions, the  following  should  be  used: 

Attention,  or,  Do  you  see  anything?  Wave  the  hand  across 
the  face,  or  whistle  once. 

Affirmative  signal:  Raise  and  lower  the  arm  vertically 
twice,  or  whistle  twice. 

Negative  signal:  Extend  the  arm  horizontally  thrice,  or 
whistle  thrice. 

Enemy  in  sight  or  hearing:  Hold  the  rifle  horizontally  above 
the  head  with  both  hands,  holding  it  steadily  if  the  enemy  is 
in  small  bodies,  and  raising  and  lowering  it  repeatedly  if  he  is 
in  force.    To  signal  by  whistle,  whistle  four  times. 

To  ask  for  reinforcements:  Extend  the  arm  horizontally 
and  ware  it  rapidly  with  a  circular  motion,  or  give  a  long,  con- 
tinuous wliistle. 

Q.    When  should  the  whistle  be  used? 

A.  In  a  very  close  country,  in  foggy  weather,  or  at  night,  the 
w^histle  must  be  relied  upon,  but  at  all  other  times  its  use 
should  be  avoided.  In  giving  the  signals,  the  whistle  must  be 
used  softly,  as  a  loud  noise  might  be  heard  by  the  enemy.  In 
every  case,  except  when  asking  for  reinforcements,  the  note 
should  be  short.  If  tlie  men  are  not  provided  with  whistles, 
they  should  give  the  whistle  signals  by  mouth. 

Q.  What  other  signals  may  be  devised,  and  what  care 
should  be  exercised  in  signaling? 

A.  Many  different  signals  may  be  devised,  such  as  waving 
the  hat  or  handkerchief,  striking  the  butt  of  the  piece  with  the 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  ,   75 

knuckles,  etc.  No  signals  should  be  made  unnecessarily,  and 
when  near  the  enemy  the  greatest  care  should  be  exercised 
that  the  signals  be  not  dete«.'ted  by  him. 

Q.    Every  patrol  should  have  what  general  formation? 

A.  The  patrol  should  have  the  general  formation  of  main 
body,  advance  guard,  rear  guard,  and  flankers,  even  Avhen  each 
can  be  represented  by  only  one  man.  If  the  patrol  consists 
of  less  than  five  men,  the  rear  guard  or  one  or  both  flankers  may 
be  dispensed  with;  but  tlie  advance  guard  should  always  be 
retained.  It  is  generally  better  to  do  Avithout  one,  or  even  both, 
of^the  flankers  than  without  the  roar-guard  man,  whose  vjgilance 
prevents  the  patrol  from  being  attacked  in  the  rear  and  cut  off. 
On  nearing  the  enemy,  the  patrol  should  generally  extend  in 
line  to  facilitate  observation.  Figm*es  1  to  6,  Plate  VII,  give 
typical  formations  of  a  small  i^atrol.* 

Q.  What  is  the  only  definite  rule  that  can  be  laid  down  for 
the  formation  of  a  patrol? 

A.  The  only  definite  rule  that  can  be  laid  down  is  the  fol- 
lowing: Tlw  patrol  must  always  he  so  formed  as  to  facilitate  the 
gaining  of  information,  and  to  insure,  if  possible,  the  escape  of  at 
least  one  man,  if  the  patrol  should  he  cut  off.  Amj  disposition  that 
complies  with  this  rule  is  right. 

Q.  What  considerations  influence  the  distances  and  inter- 
vals betAveen  the  members  of  a  patrol,  and  what  are  generally 
the  minimum  and  maximum  distances? 

A.  The  distances  and  intervals  depend  upon  circumstances. 
They  are  rarely  less  than  twenty-five  or  more  than  one  hun- 
dred yards.  The  men  should  be  close  enough  to  see  and  hear 
each  other's  signals,  and  for  mutual  support.  On  the  other 
hand,  they  should  not  so  crowd  together  that  the  patrol  could 


*It  must  be  borne  in  mind  that  these  tvpica*  formations  are  r^erely 
hints,  the  formation  of  the  patrol  always  depending-  uprn  its  cbject,  the 
nature  of  the  ground,  and  the  character  and  position  of  the  enemy. 


-FIQ.  1  — 


—    PATROLS 

—  FK3.  2 


PLATE  VII. 


FIG  3  — 


i 
3  MEN 


5  MEN 


DISTANCES  AND  INTERVALS  VARY  FROM  25  TO  100  YARDS 
ACCORDING  TO  CIRCUMSTANCES 


—  FIG.    5  - 


« 
6  MEN 


7  MEN 


8  MEN 


—    FIG,   9  — 


f.9  MEN 


15  MEN  MARCHING  ALONG  ROAD 
WITH  PASSAGE  ON  THE. FLANKS 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTf.  11 

uot  see  more  than  a  single  man  could — a  fault  to  which  men  are 
prone  through  anxiety  about  being  cut  off.  The  commander 
should  not  lose  sight  of  the  point,  and  the  other  members  should 
Iveep  the  same  man  in  view;  or,  in  the  case  of  a  large  patrol,  or 
one  on  an  extended  front,  each  man  should  endeavor  to  keep 
in  sight  the  man  next  him  towards  the  point. 

Q.  Of  what  should  the  point  generally  consist?  how  are  the 
signals  to  and  from  the  commander  trasmitted?  and  how  is  the 
patrol  assembled  ? 

A.  The  point  should,  when  practicable,  consist  of  two  men, 
in  order  that  one  may  scout  vigilantly  towards  the  enemy  while 
the  other  watches  for  signals  from  the  men  on  the  right  and 
left  and  from  the  commander.  The  signals  from  the  other 
members  of  the  patrol  are  generally  transmitted  to  the  com- 
mander through  the  point.  To  assemble  the  patrol,  the  com- 
mander signals  to  the  point  to  halt,  and  moves  up  to  it,  followed 
by  the  rear-guard  man.  The  other  men  at  once  close  in  on  the 
point,  conforming  their  pace  to  that  of  the  commander. 

Q.    How  does  the  patrol  move? 

A.  The  patrol  moves  cautiously,  hut  not  timidly,  along 
hedges,  walls,  ditches,  ravines,  etc.,  seeking  in  every  way  to 
see  without  being  seen.  It  halts  frequently  to  listen,  and  to 
make  careful  observation  of  the  ground.  At  each  halt  the  men 
should  note  their  bearings  relatively  to  certain  landmarks,  and 
the  commander  should  frequently  turn  about  to  observe  the 
general  appearance  of  the  landscape  and  note  particular  ob- 
jects, in  order  that  he  may  not  lose  his  way  even  if  compelled 
to  make  a  hasty  retreat.  It  may  be  well  in  some  cases  to  mark 
the  route  by  blazing  the  trees,  fastening  wisps  of  straw  to  posts, 
or  marking  the  path  by  dropping  small  stones;  but  such  meth- 
ods are  open  to  the  objections  that  they  take  time  and  might 
betray  the  trail  of  the  patrol  to  the  enemy. 

Q.    How  should  a  patrol  generally  retm-n? 


78  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

A.  It  is  advisable  for  a  paa*ol  to  return  by  a  different  route 
from  tlie  one  foJ'  >wed  on  advance,  if  it  be  practicable  for  it  to  do 
so,  as  it  thus  extends  its  reconnaissance  and  lessens  the  danger  of 
b(nng  cut  off;  but  a  small  patrol  rarely  goes  more  than  three- 
quarters  of  a  mile  beyond  the  force  which  sends  it  out,  and  in 
this  limited  distance  it  does  not  often  have  a  choice  of  more 
than  one  road. 

Q.    What  should  the  patrol  do  in  regard  to  great  roads? 

A-  Generally,  the  patrol  should  avoid  moving  on  great 
roads  and  entering  villages  and  inhabited  places.  But  this  does 
not  mean  that  observation  of  great  roads  is  to  be  neglected. 
On  the  contrary,  they  are  the  very  ones  that  should  be  most 
carefully  watched;  for  they  are  the  routes  that  must  be  fol- 
lowed by  any  bodies  of  the  enemy  whose  movements  are  really 
worth  reporting.  The  patrol,  while  moving  across  fields  and 
along  such  objects  as  have  been  already  mentioned,  should  en- 
deavor to  keep  a  constant  watch  on  the  great  roads.  Inhabited 
places  should  be  turned  and  carefully  observed,  but  should  not 
ordinarily  be  entered  by  a  small  patrol.  At  night,  or  in  a  fog 
or  snow-storm,  the  patrol  m.ust  of  necessity  move  on  the  great 
roads,  in  order  to  avoid  losing  its  way,  unless  it  is  moving  over 
ground  with  which  it  is  perfectly  familiar. 

Q.    What  is  the  general  rule  in  regard  to  a  patrol  halting? 

A.  The  patrol  should  not  halt  to  rest  before  its  return,  un- 
less circumstances  render  it  imperatively  necessary  to  do  so.  In 
such  case  it  should  rest  in  concealment  in  some  place  which 
offers  advantages  for  defence,  and  from  which  a  retreat  can  be 
easily  effected.  In  the  case  of  a  small  patrol,  the  latter  consid- 
eration is  the  more  important.  The  position  chosen  should  not 
be  near  any  habitation.  During  the  day  it  should  be  on  hi  eh 
ground,  from  which  an  extensive  view  may  be  obtained;  at 
night  it  should  be  on  low  ground,  so  as  to  bring  approaching 
people  into  view  on  the  sky-line. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUT  POST  DUTY.  79 

Q.  If  another  patrol  of  the  saiAe  army  or  any  friendly  force 
is  met,  what  sliould  be  done?  •  -' 

A.  The  patrol  commander  should  exchange  information 
with  it,  and  inform  himself  of  its  strength,  its  destination,  and 
the  name  of  its  commander,  in  order  that  he  may  report  the 
same  on  his  return.  Friendly 'patrols  should  recognize  each 
other  without  noise;  but  at  night,  the  one  that  first  discovers 
the  other  must  challenge  and  demand  the  parole  and  coun- 
tersign. 

Q.    What  should  be  done  if  a  hostile  patrol  is  discovered? 

A.  If  a  small  hostile  patrol  is  discovered,  it  is  generally 
better  to  remain  in  concealment  than  to  attack;  for  the  noise 
of  combat  might  cause  enough  mischief  to  more  than  counter- 
balance all  that  could  be  gained  by  defeating  the  hostile  patrol, 
even  if  prisoners  were  captured.  If  the  patrol  is  discovered  by 
the  hostile  patrol,  and  finds  itself  unable  to  escape  without  fight- 
ing, it  should  attack  boldly,  and  should  endeavor  to  take  prison, 
ers.  If  the  hostile  patrol  has  penetrated  so  far  as  to  make  it 
probable  that  it  has  gained  important  information,  nn  attempt 
should  be  made  to  ambuscade  and  capture  it.  If  surprised,  a 
patrol  should  fight  resolutely,  unless  the  enemy  were  in  such 
force  as  to  make  resistance  hopeless.  In  the  latter  case,  or  if 
defeated  in  any  case,  the  patrol  should  disperse,  each  man  mak- 
ing his  way  back  to  the  rendezvous  designated  beforehand.  It 
should  then,  after  uniting,  continue  its  reconnaissance,  sending 
one  man  back  to  the  command  with  a  report.  It  should  be  an 
invariable  rule  not  to  quit  the  reconnaissance  until  some  result 
has  been  obtained. 

Q.  What  should  be  done  if  the  enemy  is  near  at  hand  and 
in  force? 

A.  If  the  enemy  is  near  at  hand  and  in  force,  the  patrol 
must  open  fire,  and  keep  up  a  lively  fusillade  in  retreat,  as  the 
only  means  of  giving  prompt  warning  of  impending  danger. 


80  GAT  EG  Him  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

Q.  What  should  be  done  if  the  patrol  falls  into  an  ambus- 
cade, and  what  if  a  hostile  sentinel  or  patrol  is  suddenly  en- 
countered in  the  dark? 

A.  If,  notwithstanding  its  prudence,  the  patrol  falls  into 
an  ambuscade,  it  should  boldly  attack.  If  a  sentinel  or  patrol 
of  the  enemy  is  suddenly  encountered  in  tlie  dark,  no  answer 
should  be  made  to  his  challenge,  but  the  patrol  should  remain 
halted  and  silent.  The  enemy  may  think  himself  mistaken  and 
pay  no  fm-ther  attention.  If  the  challenge  is  repeated,  the 
patrol  should  sneak  away  as  quickly  as  possible,  unless  it  has 
orders  to  capture  prisoners,  in  which  case  a  sudden  rush  upon 
the  sentinel  might  enable  the  patrol  to  overpower  him  and  carry 
him  off  before  he  could  receive  assistance.  If  some  members 
of  the  patrol  can  speak  the  language  of  the  sentinel,  they  may 
succeed  in  allaying  his  suspicions  with  a  plausible  answer  to 
his  challenge, 

Q.  What  questions  should  be  asked  of  civilians  coming  from 
the  direction  of  the  enemy,  or  whose  neighborhood  has  been 
visited  by  hostile  troops? 

A.  Whenever  the  approach  of  people  is  signalled,  the  patrol 
remains  concealed  in  observation.  If  they  prove  to  be  civil- 
ians coming  from  the  direction  of  the  enemy,  they  should  be 
questioned  carefully,  as  they  may  sometimes  give  valuable  in- 
formation. They  should  be  asked  whether  they  have  seen  any 
of  the  enemy's  soldiers:  where  they  were,  what  they  were  do- 
ing; whether  they  were  infantry,  cavalry,  or  artillery;  whether 
they  were  regular  troops  or  militia;  what  kind  of  uniforms 
they  wore;  whether  the  horses  and  men  were  in  good  condition, 
or  seemed  to  be  worn  out  and  fatigued;  how  tne  troops  of  the 
enemy  behaved  themselves;  how  the  road  leading  to  the  ene- 
my is  situated,  and  its  condition;  Avhether  the  enemy  has  scout- 
ing parties  out;  whether  he  seems  to  be  vigilant;  Avhether  be 
has  taken  any  guides  from  the  village,  etc. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  81 

Q.  What  should  be  avoided  when  questioning  country 
people? 

A.  Military  terms  should  be  avoided  when  questioning  coun- 
try people.  It  is  best  to  ask  them  when  the  enemy's  troops  began 
arriving,  when  thej'  all  got  in,  etc.,  and  thus  get  data  from 
which  to  compute  the  enemy's  strength;  for  the  estimates  of 
country  people  as  to  the  numbers  of  a  military  force  are  almost 
sm-e  to  be  worthless.  Questions  formulating  a  statement  to 
which  the  person  questioned  may  answer  "yes"  or  "no"  should 
be  avoided.  The  questions  should  be  such  as  to  draw  out  a 
narrative  from  the  person  interrogated. 

Q.  What  precautions  should  be  observed  in  questioning 
civilians  ? 

A.  It  should  always  be  borne  in  mind  that  the  questions 
asked  may  be  repeated  to  the  enemy,  and  the  questioner  must, 
therefore,  be  careful  so  to  frame  them  that  they  will  not  give  a 
key  to  his  designs.  When  several  persons  are  questioned,  they 
should  be  examined  separately. 

Q.  What  should  be  done  in  regard  to  people  going  in  the 
direction  of  the  enemy  ? 

A.  They  should  be  haltt^l,  and  never  allowed  to  proceed, 
unless  they  have  undoubtedly  genuine  passes  from  proper 
authority.  If  they  are  contumacious,  they  must  be  threatened, 
and  sometimes  roughly  handled.  It  may  be  necessary  in  some 
cases  to  tie  them  to  trees  or  posts,  or  even  to  gag  them  or 
threaten  them  with  death  if  they  cry  out;  but  it  should  be  an 
invariable  rule  never  to  resort  to  harsh  measures  when  gentler 
means  will  secure  the  same  end. 

Q.  Give  the  general  rules  in  regaiMl  to  the  selection  and 
treatment  of  guides. 

A.  If  it  be  necessary  to  take  a  guide  from  among  the  peo- 
ple of  the  country,  he  should  be  kindly  treated,  but  warned 
that  he  will  pay  with  his  life  the  penalty  of  treachery.    The  de- 


82  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

gree  of  intelligence  and  education  possessed  by  the  guide  will 
decide  the  measiu-es  proper  to  employ  with  him;  but  he  must 
always  be  carefully  guarded,  and  must  not  be  discharged  until 
there  is  no  longer  danger  of  his  betraying  the  patrol.  No  one 
but  the  commander  should  communicate  with  the  guides,  and 
the  soldiers  should  not,  under  any  circumstances,  be  allowed 
either  to  chaff  or  threaten  them.  Drovers,  peddlers,  livery- 
stable  employees,  and  country  doctors  will  generally  be  the 
best  guides.  If  a  man  can  be  found  who  has  served  as  a  guide 
to  the  enemy,  so  much  the  better. 

Q.  What  precautions  are  talien  by  the  patrol  with  reference 
to  concealment? 

A.  Whenever  possible,  the  men  composing  the  patrol  should 
keep  under  cover.  If  there  is  a  bank  or  cover  of  any  kind  par- 
allel to  the  line  of  march,  they  will  keep  it  between  them  and 
the  supposed  position  of  the  enemy.  If  the  different  features 
affording  cover  lie  perpendicular  to  tho  line  of  march,  the  patrol 
will  halt  a  moment  behind  eacli,  peer  cautiously  about,  and 
then  pass  rapidly  to  the  next,  the  men  moving  one  at  a  time,  stoop- 
ing and  running.  No  country  is  so  open  that  small  folds  of 
groimd  affording  some  degree  of  concealment  can  not  be  found. 

Q.    How  are  cross-roads  reconnoitered ? 

A.  When  the  patrol  comes  to  a  cross-road,  two  men  should 
be  sent  along  it  on  each  flank  until  they  come  to  the  first  turn, 
the  patrol  halting.  If  the  men  see  nothing  suspicious,  they  re- 
tiu'n,  and  the  patrol  pushes  on.  If  anything  suspicious  is  seen, 
one  man  rushes  back  quickly  to  the  patrol,  while  the  other  re- 
mains in  observation.  If  the  patrol  is  very  small,  two  men 
should  be  sent  first  to  one  side  and  then  to  the  other,  in  prefer- 
ence to  Rending  a  single  man  in  each  direction. 

Q.    How  is  a  height  reconnoitered? 

A.  In  reconnoitering  a  height,  if  the  patrol  is  large  enough 
to  admit  of  detaching  them,  one  or  two  men  climb  the  slope  on 
either  fiank,  keeping  in  sight  of  the  patrol  if  possible.    In  any 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  83 

case,  oue  mau  moves  cautiously  up  the  hill,  followed  by  the 
others  in  single  file  at  such  distance  that  each  can  keep  his  pred- 
ecessor in  view. 

Q.    How  is  a  defile  reconnoitered  ? 

A.  On  approaching  a  defile,  if  time  permits,  the  heights  on 
either  side  should  be  reconnoitered  by  flankers  before  the  patrol 
enters.  If  the  heights  are  inaccessible,  or  time  is  urgent,  the 
patrol  pushes  through,  in  single  file,  at  double  time,  the  distance 
being  the  same  as  in  ascending  a  hill.  The  same  method  should 
be  adopted  in  reconnoitering  a  railroad  cut  or  sunken  road. 

Q.    How  is  a  bridge  or  ford  reconnoitered? 

A.  At  a  bridge  or  ford,  the  front  of  the  patrol  is  contracted 
so  as  to  bring  all  men  to  the  passage.  The  patrol  then  crosses 
rapidly,  and  takes  up  a  proper  formation.  A  bridge  is  first 
examined,  to  see  that  it  is  safe  and  has  not  been  tampered  with 
by  the  enemy. 

Q.    How  are  woods  reconnoitered? 

A.  The  patrol  enters  a  wood  in  skirmishing  order,  the  inter- 
vals being  as  great  as  may  be  consistent  with  mutual  observa- 
tion and  support  on  the  part  of  the  members  of  the  patrol.  On 
arriving  at  the  farther  edge  of  the  wood,  the  patrol  should  re- 
main concealed  and  carefully  look  about  before  passing  but  to 
the  open  ground.  When  there  is  such  a  growth  of  underbrush 
as  to  make  this  method  impracticable,  a  road  through  the  wood 
must  be  reconnoitered  as  in  the  case  of  a  defile,  though  not  usu- 
ally at  double  time.  If  in  this  case  a  cross-road  is  found  in  the 
wood,  the  patrol  must  be  assembled  and  the  lateral  road  recon- 
noitered before  passing  beyond  it. 

Q.    How  is  an  inclosure  reconnoitered? 

A.  In  reconnoitering  an  inclosure  (such  as  a  garden,  park,  or 
cemetery),  the  leading  patrollers  first  examine  the  exterior,  to 
make  sure  that  the  enemy  is  not  concealed  behind  one  of  the 
faces  of  the  inclosure.    They  then  proceed  to  examine  the  in- 


84  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

terior.  Great  care  should  be  taken  in  reconnoitering  and  enter- 
ing an  inciosure,  as  an  imprudent  patrol  might  find  it  a  veri- 
table ti*ap. 

Q.    How  is  a  house  reconnoitered?  : 

A.  When  a  house  or  farm-building  is  approached  by  a  patrol, 
it  is  first  carefully  reconnoitered  from  a  distance,  and  if  noth- 
ing suspicious  is  seen,  it  is  then  approached  by  two  men,  the 
rest  of  tlie  party  remaining  concealed  in  observation.  If  the 
patrol  is  large  enough  to  admit  of  it,  four  men  approach  the 
house,  so  as  to  examine  the  front  and  back  entrances  simul- 
taneously. Only  one  man  enters  the  door,  the  other  remaining 
outside  to  give  the  alarm,  should  a  party  of  the  enemy  be  con- 
cealed in  the  house.  The  patrol  should  not  remain  in  the  vicin- 
ity of  the  house  any  longer  than  necessary,  as  information  rela- 
tive to  its  numbers  and  movements  might  be  given  to  the  ene- 
my, if  a  hostile  party  should  subsequently  visit  the  place. 

Q.    How  are  villages  reconnoitered? 

A.  If  the  village  is  seen  to  be  in  possession  of  the  enemy, 
the  patrol  must  be  content  with  reconnoitering  it  from  the  out- 
side. If  the  presence  of  the  enemy  is  not  apparent,  the  patrol 
should  enter  the  village,  being  disposed  in  any  way  conforming 
to  the  general  rule.  A  formation  suitable  in  many  cases  would 
be  in  single  file  at  proper  distances  for  observation  and  support, 
each  man  being  on  tlie  opposite  side  of  the  street  from  his  pred- 
ecessor. Tlie  patrol  should  push  through  the  village  as  rapidly 
as  possible;  and  wlien  it  lias  reached  the  opposite  side,  two  of 
the  party  might  be  detached,  if  expedient,  to  reenter  the  village 
to  seek  further  information,  the  rest  of  the  patrol  remaining 
in  some  position  affording  good  observation  and  secure  retreat. 

If  the  patrol  is  strong  enough,  it  should  seize  the  post-oflice, 
telegraph  office,  and  railroad  station,  and  secure  all  important 
papers  that  may  be  there.  If  the  patrol  is  part  of  an  advance 
guard,  it  should  seize  the  mayor  and  postmaster  of  the  place, 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  85 

and  turn  them  over  to  the  commander  of  the  vanguard  with  the 
papers  seized. 

At  night,  a  village  must  be  even  more  cautiously  approached 
by  a  small  patrol  than  by  day.  The  patrol  should  glide  through 
back  alleys,  across  gardens,  etc.,  rather  than  move  along  the 
main  street.  If  there  are  no  signs  of  the  enemy,  they  should 
make  inquiry.  If  no  light  is  seen,  and  it  seems  imprudent  to 
rouse  any  of  the  people,  the  pati'ol  must  watch  and  capture  one 
of  the  inhabitants,  and  get  from  him  such  information  as  he 
may  possess. 

The  best  time  for  a  patrol  to  approach  a  village  is  at  early 
dawn,  when  it  is  light  enough  to  see,  but  before  the  inhabit- 
ants are  up. 

It  is  dangerous  in  the  extreme  for  a  small  patrol  to  enter  a 
village,  unless  it  is  certain  that  it  is  not  occupied  by  the  enemy; 
for  the  men  could  be  easily  shot  down  by  a  fire  from  wandow^s, 
cellarways,  etc.,  or  entrapped  and  captured. 

Q.    How  are  cities  and  large  towais  reconnoitered? 

A.  As  a  rule,  cities  and  large  towns  should  not  be  entered 
by  a  small  patrol,  but  should  be  merely  watched  from  the 
outside. 

Q.  How  is  the  reconnaissance  of  the  enemy  in  position 
effected? 

A.  The  patrol  endeavors  to  asertain  the  direction  and  ex- 
tent of  the  line  of  observation,  how  its  flanks  are  supported, 
the  positions  of  the  sentinels,  their  number,  the  number  of  pick- 
ets, the  places  where  the  line  may  be  penetrated  with  the  least 
risk  of  discovery,  the  strength  of  the  hostile  patrols,  and  the 
routes  taken  by  them.  It  is  also  of  great  importance  to  ascer- 
tain whether  good  roads  extend  laterally  behind  the  enemy's 
pickets,  as  such  roads  could  be  used  by  a  force  sent  out  to  cap- 
ture them.  If  the  enemy's  line  of  sentinels  is  penetrated,  the 
patrol  may,  perhaps,  approach  near  enough  to  the  picket  to 


86  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

overhear  the  countersign  and  parole;  but  it  must  be  certain  that 
the  advantage  to  be  gained  is  worth  the  risk,  as  the  patrol  will 
be  in  great  danger  of  capture.  If  a  point  can  be  found  on  the 
flank  of  the  enemy's  position  from  which  a  view  of  his  disposi- 
tions in  rear  of  the  line  of  sentinels  can  be  obtained,  the  com- 
mander of  the  patrol  endeavors  to  gain  such  point,  and,  conceal- 
ing his  patrol  near  at  hand,  makes  careful  observation.  The 
best  time  for  such  observation  is  at  daybreak,  and  the  selected 
point  should  be  gained  before  dawn,  so  as  to  enable  the  patrol 
to  observe  the  relieving  of  the  outpost.  The  longer  the  patrol 
remains,  the  more  it  will  see,  but  the  greater  will  be  its  danger 
of  being  discovered.  The  patrol  commander  should  have  suffi- 
cient courage  to  remain  long  enough  to  gain  valuable  informa- 
tion, and  sufficient  prudence  to  withdraw  in  time  to  escape 
capture. 

If  any  important  movements  are  observed,  such  as  the  with- 
drawing of  the  sentinels,  the  changing  of  their  positions,  prep- 
arations for  advance  or  retreat,  etc.,  the  patrol  commander 
sends  a  man  back  at  once  with  a  report  of  what  has  been  seen. 

Q.  How  is  the  reconnaissance  of  the  enemy  on  the  march 
effected? 

A.  If  the  enemy  is  on  the  march,  the  patrol  should  conceal 
itself  close  to  the  hostile  column,  but  far  enough  away  to  escape* 
discovery  by  the  enemy's  flankers.  Conspicuous  places  should 
be  avoided,  even  if  at  some  distance  from  the  column,  as  they 
would  probably  be  carefully  searched.  The  best  place  is  a  ditch 
or  wallow,  Avhich  will  conceal  the  patrol  and  not  be  visible  even 
at  a  short  distance.  The  patrol  carefully  observes  the  progress 
of  the  column,  noting  its  breadth  of  front,  its  rate  of  march, 
and  the  time  it  talves  to  pass  a  given  point. 

Q.    How  can  the  strength  of  a  column  be  estimated? 

A*.  A  given  point  is  passed  in  one  minute  by  about  20() 
infantry  in  column  of  fours;  by  about  150  cavalry  in  fours  at  a 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  Sj 

walk,  or,  if  in  rear  of  the  infantry,  by  about  100;  by  about  260 
cavalry  in  fours  at  a  trot,  and  by  about  4  giuis  if  in  rear  of 
infantry.  If  tlie  whole  column  can  be  seen,  and  its  length  can 
be  ascertained  by  the  know^n  distance  between  any  two  points 
which  it  passes,  its  strength  can  at  once  be  estimated  by  allow- 
ing 1  yard  for  every  2  infantry  soldiers,  1  yard  for  each  cavalry 
soldier,  and  20  yards  for  each  gun  or  caisson.  An  allowance  of 
from  one-fourth  to  one-half  must  be  made  for  opening  out,  de- 
pending upon  the  state  of  the  roads  and  weather  and  the  disci- 
pline of  the  troops  composing  the  column. 

Q.    For  what  must  the  patrol  carefully  watch? 

A.  The  patrol  must  carefully  watch  for  all  signs  and  trails 
of  the  enemy,  as  information  of  the  greatest  value  is  thus  some- 
times obtained. 

Q.  What  indications  are  furnished  by  boats  and  abridges  in 
the  vicinity  of  the  enemy? 

A.  If  boats  in  great  number  are  seen  assembled  on  the  bank 
of  a  sti'eam,  it  is  an  indication  of  preparation  to  cross.  If  they 
are  found  burned,  it  is  an  indication  of  retreat.  If  important 
bridges  are  found  broken,  it  is  a  sign  of  a  long  retreat.  If  at 
some  distance  above  the  point  where  we  are  preparing  to  throw 
a  bridge,  large  boats  heavily  laden  with  stone  are  found,  it  is 
■an  evidence  of  the  enemy's  intention  to  destroy  the  bridge  and 
oppose  the  crossing. 

Q.  What  indications  are  furnished  by  the  flames  and  smoke 
of  the  enemy's  camp-fires  ? 

A.  If  at  night  the  flames  of  tlie  enemy's  camp-fires  disap- 
pear and  reappear,  sometliing  is  moving  between  the  observer 
and  the  fires.  If  smoke  as  w^ell  as  flame  is  visible,  the  fires 
are  very  near.  If  the  fires  are  very  numerous  and  lighted  suc- 
cessively, and  if  soon  after  being  lighted  they  go  out,  it  is  proba- 
ble that  the  enemy  is  preparing  a  retreat  and  trying  to  deceive 
us.    If  the  fires  burn  very  brightly  and  clearlj^  at  a  late  hour, 


88  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

the  enemy  has  probably  gone,  and  has  left  a  detachment  to 
keep  the  fires  burning.  If,  at  an  unusual  time,  much  smoke  is 
seen  ascending  from  the  enemy's  camp,  it  is  probable  that  he 
is  engaged  in  cooking  preparatory  to  moving  off. 

Q.  What  indications  may  be  -noted  of  the  arrival  and  de- 
parture of  troops  ? 

A.  The  rumbling  of  vehicles,  cracking  of  whips,  neighing 
of  horses,  braying  of  mules,  and  barking  of  dogs  of ren  indicate^ 
the  arrival  or  dopartiu'e  of  troops.  If  the  noise  remains  in  tht. 
same  place,  and  new  fir^s  are  lighted,  it  is  probable  that  rein- 
forcements have  an-ived.  If  tlie  noise  grows  more  indistinct, 
troops  are  probably  withdrawing.  If,  added  to  this,  the  fires 
appear  to  be  dying  out,  and  the  enemy  seems  to  redouble  the 
vigilance  of  his  outposts,  the  indications  of  retreat  are  very 
strong. 

Q.  What  characteristic  noises  are  made  by  troops  on  the 
march,  and  at  what  distances  can  the  various  arms  be  heard? 

A.  The  noise  made  by  a  strong  column  on  the  march  is 
distinct  and  continuous;  that  of  a  small  body,  feeble  and  inter- 
rupted. Tlie  distance  at  which  the  noise  of  marcliing  can  be 
heard  depends  upon  the  nature  of  the  ground  marched  over,  the 
direction  of  the  wind,  and  the  presence  or  absence  of  other 
soimds.  -On  a  calm  night,  a  company  of  infantry,  marching  at 
route  step  on  a  hard  road,  can  be  heard  at  a  distance  of  500  or 
GOO  yards;  a  troop  of  cavalry  at  a  walk.  600  or  700  yards;  a  troop 
of  cavalry  at  a  trot  or  gallop,  artillery,  and  heavywagons,  900  or 
1,000  yards. 

Q.  What  indications  are  afforded  by  the  dust  raised  by  a 
marching  column  ? 

A.  The  dust  raised  by  the  march  of  a  column  furnishes 
an  indication  not  only  of  the  direction  of  the  march,  but  the 
strength  and  composition  of  the  column.  When  infantry  is 
marching,  the  dust  is  low  and  thick.    With  cavalry,  the  dust  is 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  89 

bisher;  and  as  this  arm  moves  rapidly,  the  upper  part  of  the 
cloud  is  thinner  and  disappears  more  quickly  than  in  the  ease 
of  infantry.  The  clouds  of  dust  raised  by  artillery  and  wagons 
are  unequal  in  height  and  disconnected.  Hence,  t)y  noting  the 
length  of  a  line  of  dust  and  the  intervals  in  it,  the  strength  and 
composition  of  the  column  may  be  estimated.  The  effect  of  the 
wind  in  dissipating  the  dust  must,  however,  be  taken  into  con- 
sideration. 

Q.  What  indications  are  furnished  by  the  reflection  from 
the  weapons  of  marching  troops? 

A.  If  the  reflection  is  very  brilliant,  it  is  probable  that  the 
troops  are  marching  towards  the  observer;  otherwise,  it  is  i^re- 
sumable  that  they  are  marching  in  the  other  direction. 

Q.  At  what  distances  can  various  objects  be  seen,  on  a 
clear  day,  by  a  man  with  good  vision? 

A.    At  a  distance  of  9  to  12  miles,  church  spires  and  towers. 
"  "  5  to  7       "        windmills. 

"  "  2  to  21/4    "        chimneys  of  light  color. 

"  "  2,000  yards,     trunks  of  large  trees. 

"  "  1,000        "        single  posts, 

At  500  yards  the  panes  of  glass  may  be  distinguished  in  a 
window. 

Troops  are  visible  at  2,000  yards,  at  which  distance  a  mounted 
man  looks  like  a  mere  speck;  at  1,200  yards  infantry  can  be 
distinguished  from  cavalry;  at  1,000  yards  a  line  of  men  looks 
like  a  broad  belt;  at  600  yards  the  files  of  a  squad  can  be  counted, 
and  at  400  yards  the  movements  of  the  ai*ms  and  legs  can  be 
plainly  seen. 

Q.  What  are  some  of  the  conditions  which  cause  an  object 
to  look  farther  or  nearer  than  it  really  is? 

A.  The  larger,  brighter,  or  better  lighted  an  object  is,  the 
nearer  it  seems.  An  object  seems  nearer  when  it  has  a  dark 
background  than  when  it  has  a  light  one,  and  closer  to  the  ob- 


90  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

server  when  the  air  is  clear  than  when  it  is  raining:,  snowing:, 
foggy,  or  tlie  atmosphere  is  filled  with  smoke.  An  object  looks 
fartlier  off  when  the  observer  is  facing  the  sun  than  when  he 
has  his  back  to  it.  A  smootli  expanse  of  snow,  grain  jflelds,  or 
wnter  makes  distances  seem  shorter  than  they  really  are. 

Q.  What  information  may  be  gained  from  the  trail  of  the 
enemy  ? 

A,  If  the  ground  is  evenly  trotlden,  the  column  was  com- 
posed of  infantry  alone.  If  there  are  many  prints  of  horse- 
shoes, the  column  also  contained  cavalry.  If  the  wheel  tracks 
are  deep  and  wide,  artillery  was  in  the  column.  If  the  trail  is 
fresh,  the  column  has  recently  passed.  If  the  trail  is  narrow, 
the  troops  felt  seciu-e,  as  tliey  were  marching  in  column  of  route; 
if  broad,  they  expected  an  action,  as  they  were  marching  in 
column  of  platoons  or  companies,  ready  to  deploy.  If  the  fields 
on  each  side  of  the  road  are  cut  up  with  many  tracks,  the  cav- 
alry marched  on  the  flanks  of  the  column,  and  the  enemy  was 
pushing  on  with  his  troops  well  in  hand  for  action.  A  retreating 
army  makes  a  broad  trail  across  fields,  especially  before  the 
rear  guard  formed  and  the  retreat  is  regularly  organized. 

Q.  What  indications  are  furnished  by  an  abandoned  camp  or 
bivouac? 

A.  They  are  found  mainly  in  the  remains  of  camp-fires. 
These  will  show,  by  their  degree  of  freshness,  whether  much  or 
little  time  has  elapsed  since  the  enemy  quitted  the  place,  and 
the  quantity  of  cinders  will  give  an  indication  of  the  length  of 
time  he  occupied  it.  They  will  also  furnish  a  means  of  estimat- 
ing his  force  approximately,  ten  men  being  allowed  to  each  fire. 
Other  valuable  indications  in  regard  to  the  length  of  time  the 
position  was  occupied  and  the  time  when  it  was  abandoned  may 
be  found  in  the  evidences  of  care  or  haste  in  the  construction  of 
huts  or  shelters,  and  in  the  freshness  of  straw,  grain,  dung,  or 
the  entrails  of  slaughtered  animals.    Abandoned  clothing,  equip- 


C  ATE  GIT  ISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  91 

ments,  or  harness  will  ,^n  o  a  clue  to  \hv  arms  and  regiments 
composing  a  retreating  force.  Dead  horses  lying  about,  broken 
weapons,  discarded  knapsacks,  abandoned  and  broken-down 
wagons,  (4c.,  ai'e  indications  of  its  fatigue  and  demoralization. 
Bloody  bandages  lying  about,  and  many  fresh  graves,  are  evl. 
deuces  that  the  enemy  is  heavily  burdened  with  wounded  or 
sick. 

Q.  AVhat  inferences  ma.f  bi'  drawn  from  the  manner  and 
bearing  of  the  inhabitants  in  a  hostile  country? 

A.  If  the  inhabitants  are  gloomy  and  anxious,  it  is  an  indi- 
cation of  a  want  of  confidence  in  their  cause,  or  that  their  troops 
are  distant.  If  they  are  excited  and  insolent,  it  is  an  indica- 
tion that  their  army  is  strong  and  near,  and  that  they  antici- 
pate success.  If  they  are  friendly  and  pleasant  in  their  de- 
meanor, it  is  probable  that  the  war  is  not  popular,  and  that  the 
Government  lacks  cordial  suppai't. 

Q.  When  should  reports  be  sent  in,  and  what  should  be 
reported  ? 

-  A.  Reports  should  be  sent  in  whenever  anything  of  import- 
ance is  seen,  or  anything  happens  which  should  be  known  by 
the  officer  Avho  sent  out  the  patrol.  Trivial  matters  should  not 
be  reported;  but  if  there  is  a  doubt  as  to  the  importance  of 
something  seen  or  heard,  a  report  should  be  made;  for  it  is  bet- 
ter to  report  an  insignificant  matter  than  to  let  one  of  great  mo- 
ment go  unheeded. 

Q.  How  should  a  verbal  report  be  sent,  and  when  are  such 
reports  better  than  written  ones? 

A.  Reports  may  be  either  verbal  or  written.  If  a  verbal  re- 
port is  sent  in,  it  should  be  intrusted  to  an  intelligent  man,  and 
he  should  be  required  to  repeat  it  before  starting,  so  as  to  be 
sure  that  he  understands  it.  The  man  who  carries  the  report 
should,  if  possible,  himself  deliver  it  to  the  officer  for  whom  it 
is  intended.    If  the  country  is  dangerous  and  carefully  watched 


92  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 


PATROL  NO.    2. . 

KEPORT  HOA 
FROM    &n4zrAJ  SLc^uMi 
PLACE       llj^^cAyiav  ar^ccl  OCtAyr 
TO   lujuU''   XtrviLi, . 

AT   JI^aJLUuw-cJL    6/irVl^A>C4A.a, 

SENT  ^H. /(/'M.,         /2.Mm        iii^  /^I8dj, 

Icutvju  QrrojL.  Juu^  (Unou£ld  iun  AiM^  M 


{Signature  of  Sender.)  ^..^.?!iMljiA4A^....}dMiMi^f^!^J.. 

REPORT  NO.     ;^        1/  PATROL  NO 

RECEIVED,  ^   H,/"^  M.  ^  M. 

{Signature  of  Receiver.)  ./>^,   y^.. ^.•»!m.mm...M0t.... 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  93 

by  the  enemy,  the  same  report  should  be  sent  in  by  several  men, 
each  taking  a  different  route.  In  this  case  a  verbal  report  is 
better  than  a  written  one,  as  the  enemy  can  not  get  possession 
of  it  by  capturing  the  bearer,  and  the  report  of  each  man  will  be 
a  check  upon  the  accuracy  of  the  others. 

Q.    What  are  the  indispensable  qualities  of  a  written  report? 

A.  Scrupulous  acciu-acy  as  to  facts,  simplicity,  clearness  of 
diction,  legibility  of  handwriting,  and  correct  spelling  of  proper 
names.  Surmises  should  never  be  given  as  facts,  and  the  person 
making  the  report  should  carefully  separate  what  he  himself 
knows  from  what  has  been  told  him  by  others.  Brevity  is  desir- 
able, but  not  at  the  price  of  obscm'ity;  a  report  should  not  be 
expressed  ambiguously  in  ten  words  when  it  can  be  stated 
clearly  in  twenty.  When  the  spelling  of  proper  names  does  not 
correspond  with  their  pronunciation  by  tlie  people  of  the  coun- 
try, their  phonetic  spelling  should  also  be  given  in  parentheses. 
Thus:  "The  enemy  is  reported  in  force  at  Saguache  (Siwash), 
and  we  have  seen  small  hostile  parties  on  the  Cebolla  (Savoya)." 

Note. — A  convenient  form  of  report  is  given  on  the  opposite 
page. 

Q.  With  what  should  the  commander  of  the  patrol  be  fur- 
nished? 

A.  If  practicable,  he  should  be  fiKuished  with  a  pad  of 
printed  report  blanks.  The  receipt  should  be  signed,  torn  off, 
and  given  to  the  bearer  of  the  report  as  his  voucher  for  its  deliv- 
ery. A  report,  either  written  or  verbal,  should  invariably  be 
made  whenever  the  patrol  returns. 

Strong  Infantry  Patrols. 

Q.    To  what  should  the  strength  of  a  patrol  be  proportionate? 

A.  To  the  object  to  be  effected  by  the  patrol.  It  should 
neither  be  so  weak  as  to  be  obliged  to  retire  before  small  par- 
ties of  the  enemy,  nor  so  strong  as  to  attract  attention. 


94  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOIST  DlfTY. 

Q.  What  should  always  be  specified,  and  with  what  should 
the  patrol  commander  be  provided? 

A.  The  object  for  w^hich  the  patrol  is  sent  out  should  be 
distinctly  specified,  and  the  commander  should  be  provided 
with  a  good  map,  by  means  of  which  he  may  select  his  route. 
But  if  he  chooses  his  route  by  map,  it  is  none  the  less  imperative 
that  he  pay  careful  attention  to  the  various  features  of  the 
ground  (not  always  clearly  indicated  by  the  best  maps),  with  a 
view  to  utilizing  them  in  approaching  the  enemy,  in  avoiding 
him,  in  retreating,  or  in  defence. 

Q.  What  is  the  general  nature  of  the  formation  of  a  strong 
infantry  patrol? 

A.  The  larger  the  patrol,  the  less  secret  are  its  movements, 
and  the  more  nearly  does  its  formation  correspond  to  that  of  a 
column  on  the  march,  or  a  line  deployed  for  action,  as  the  case 
may  be.  As  a  rule,  at  least  half  the  strength  of  the  patrol  should 
be  in  the  main  body;  but  its  point,  flanking,  and  rear  groups  each 
constitute  a  small  patrol,  and  are  each  guided  by  the  princi- 
ples alreadj^  laid  down  for  the  conduct  of  a  small  patrol,  modi- 
fied by  their  dependence  on  the  main  body.* 

Expeditionary  Patrols. 

Q.  How  do  the  operations  of  an  expeditionary  patrol  gen- 
erally differ  from  a  special  reconnaissance? 

A.  Expeditionnry  patrols  are  generally  strong  patrols,  al- 
though in  some  cases  the  object  in  view  may  be  better  attained 


*  Some  typical  formations  of  a  strong  patrol  are  given  in  the  last  three 
figures  on  Plate  VII.  Figures  7  and  8  explain  themselves.  In  Figure  9  the 
men  detached  to  reconnoiter  and  guard  the  bridge  would  ordinarily  be  sent 
out  from  the  point,  their  places  being  taken,  at  double  time,  by  men  from 
the  main  body  of  the  patrol.  The  patrol  moves  slowly,  or  halts  if  necessary, 
while  the  bridge  is  being  reconnoitered.  After  the  patrol  has  passed  on,  the 
detachment  follows  as  rear  group,  the  former  rear  group  closing  up  to  the 
main  body  of  the  patrol  at  double  time.  The  detachment  may  in  some  cases 
be  left  to  guard  the  Uridge. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  95 

by  small  ones,  The  object  of  an  expeditionai^v  patrol  is  always 
a  special  one,  and  the  operations  of  a  force  of  this  kind  generally 
differ  from  a  special  reconnaissance  only  in  the  size  of  the  force 
employed. 

Q.  In  general,  how  does  an  expeditionary  patrol  effect  the 
capture  of  a  sentinel'?  of  a  patrol?    of  prisoners  generally? 

A.  If  the  object  in  view  is  the  capture  of  a  sentinel,  the 
patrol  should  ordinarily  be  a  small  one.  A  sentinel  is  chosen 
whose  post  can  apparently  be  easily  approached,  who  appears 
to  be  isolated,  and  who,  as  far  as  can  be  judged,  is  not  in  plain 
sight  of  his  picket.  The  patrol  cautiously  steals  up  close  to  the 
sentinel's  post,  being  extended  as  circumstances  may  require, 
and,  upon  a  pre-arranged  signal,  rushes  forward,  and  endeavors 
to  surround  the  sentinel  and  seize  him  before  he  can  fire.  Even 
if  he  fires,  the  patrol  can  probably  run  him  off  before  he  can  re- 
ceive assistance,  if  he  has  been  surprised. 

If  the  object  is  the  captm*e  of  a  patrol,  the  expeditionary 
force  should  be  a  large  patrol.  It  must  prepare  an  ambuscade, 
or  take  up  a  position  such  that  it  can  surround  the  enemy's 
patrol,  or  at  least  cut  off  its  retreat.  If  the  opposing  patrol  is 
equal  or  superior  in  numbers,  the  attack  must  be  a  siu'prise, 
must  be  audaciously  pushed,  and  the  surviving  members  of  the 
enemy's  party  must  be  hurried  away  before  they  can  be  succored 
by  their  friends. 

In  all  cases  when  a  large  patrol  is  charged  with  the  capture 
of  prisoners,  its  commander  must  seek  a  place  of  observation 
for  himself  and  a  place  of  concealment  for  his  men;  tlie  two 
places  being  either  coincident  or  near  each  other.  He  then 
waits  until  one  or  a  small  party  of  the  enemy  draw  far  enough 
aAvay  from  their  camp  or  column  to  be  beyond  the  reach  of 
prompt  assistance,  and  waylays  or  gives  chase  to  them  In  these 
expeditions  the  prime  object  is  to  bring  in  the  prisoners,  and 
harsh  measures  to  hasten  their  march  are  excusable. 


96  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

Q.  When  is  the  most  favorcible  moment  for  questionmg 
prisoners,  and  why? 

A.  When  they  have  just  been  captured.  They  are  then  agi- 
tated and  have  not  suflBcient  >•  elf -control  to  deceive.  The  longer 
the  questioning  is  postponed,  the  more  evasive  and  smdied  will 
their  answers  become.  Their  answers  at  the  place  of  capture 
may  to  a  certain  extent  be  verified.  Such  is  not  the  case  after 
the  lapse  of  some  time  and  in  another  place. 

Q.    By  whom  are  the  prisoners  questioned? 

A.  The  prisoners  are  questioned  at  once  by  one  of  the 
officers  of  the  detachment  which  captures  them.  Their  replies 
are  written  down  and  transmitted  with  the  prisoners  to  the  De- 
partment of  Intelligence,  where  they  are  questioned  more  at 
length. 

Q.    What  is  the  relative  value  of  different  izrades  of  prisoners? 

A.  It  is  more  desirable  to  capture  an  officer  than  an  enlisted 
man:  an  officer  of  high  rank  rather  than  a  subaltern;  a  staff 
officer  rather  than  a  line  officer.  In  brief,  the  object  should  be 
to  captm-e  those  who  are  likely  to  possess  the  most  extended 
information. 

Q.  If  enlisted  men  are  captiu-ed.  what  should  they  be  ques- 
tioned about? 

A.  They  should  be  questioned  in  regard  to  their  regiments, 
brigades,  and  divisions;  the  length  of  time  they  have  been  in 
the  position:  whether  their  rations  are  satisfactory:  whether 
certain  commanders  are  popular  and  have  the  confidence  of 
their  men:  whether  there  are  many  men  on  sick  report;  what 
news  has  lately  been  received  in  camp,  and  what  the  rumors 
are — in  brief,  all  questions  calculated  to  elicit  information  in  re- 
gard to  the  enemy's  position,  movements,  and  moral.  If  tact  bo 
exercised  in  questioning,  much  information  may  be  gained:  for 
the  prisoner  will  probably  consider  the  questions  as  prompted 
merely  by  natural  citriositv. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  97 

Q.  When  the  object  is  the  destruction  of  roads,  raih-oads,  or 
Telegraphs,  or  the  tapping  of  a  telegraph,  how  should  the  expedi- 
tionary patrol  act? 

A.  When  the  object  is  the  destruction  of  roads,  railroads,  or 
telegraphs,  the  expeditionary  patrol  should  generally  be  a  large 
one;  but  in  some  cases  a  small  patrol  may  answer  the  purpose 
better,  as  it  can  move  to  its  destination  more  secretly,  and  the  use 
of  high  explosives  gives  it  a  great  destructive  power.  In  any 
case,  the  patrol  should  endeavor  to  reach  its  objective  unseen, 
and  part  should  be  on  the  alert  watching  the  enemy  while  the 
rest  of  the  men  are  engaged  in  the  work  of  destruction. 

A  patrol  may  be  sent  out  to  gain  information  by  "tapping"  a 
telegraph  line.  In  this  case,  a  telegraph  operator,  using  a  small 
pocket  insti'ument.  taps  the  line  and  learns  the  messages  passing 
over  it.  The  rest  of  the  men.  carefully  concealed,  look  out  for 
the  enemy.  An  expeditionary  patrol  for  the  purpose  of  tapping 
a  telegraph  line  is  geiioraUy  a  cavalry  patrol,  sent  out  from  the 
cavalry  screen  or  from  a  raiding  column. 

Harassing  Patrols. 

Q.    When  may  harassing  patrols  be  used? 

A.  When  an  army  halts  in  a  position  to  await  reinforce- 
ments, or  because  of  the  irresolution  of  its  chief,  the  opposing 
commander  (even  if  bis  army  be  inferior  in  numbers)  may  often 
raise  the  moral  of  his  own  troops,  and  impair  the  coui'age  and 
efficiency  of  those  of  his  adversary,  by  causing  frequent  alarms, 
destroying  the  enemy's  rest;  compelling  the  hostile  outposts  re- 
peatedly to  rush  to  arms,  and  exciting  their  sentinels  to  such  a 
degi'ee  that  they  fancy  a  foe  in  every  shadow,  and  imagine  a 
hostile  attack  in  every  rustling  lAif . 

Q.    Are  harassing  patrols  small  or  strong? 


98  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

A.  They  are  generally  strong;  for  their  object  being  not  to 
seek  information,  but  to  annoy  the  enemy,  they  must  be  pre- 
pared to  fight.  In  some  cases,  however,  better  results  may  be 
obtained  by  reducing  the  size  and  increasing  the  number  of  the 
patrols, 

Q.    What  is  the  method  of  operating  with  a  harassing  patrol? 

A.  If  the  patrol  is  smaU,  the  enemy's  sentinels  should  be 
shot  down  or  captured  in  a  noisy  rush.  If  the  patrol  is  large, 
the  attack  should  be  made  upon  the  enemy's  pickets;  the  object 
being  the  creation  of  alarm  and  the  infliction  of  loss  rather  than 
the  capture  of  prisoners.  If  many  small  harassing  patrols  are 
employed,  strong  patrols  should  be  sent  out,  from  time  to  time, 
to  make  vigorous  attacks  on  the  pickets;  as  the  enemy  would 
otherwise  find  it  siifticient  merely  to  redouble  the  vigilance  of 
his  sentinels  and  patrol  to  the  front.  The  method  of  attack 
should  be  continually  changed,  and  the  point  selected,  the  size 
of  the  assailing  force,  and  the  hour  of  attack  should  all  be 
variable. 

Flank  Patrols. 

Q,    What  are  the  nature  and  duties  of  flank  patrols? 

A.  They  are  always  strong  patrols,  and  usually  operate  on 
roads  parallel  to  the  line  of  march  of  the  main  body.  They  re- 
connoiter  defiles,  farms,  woods,  etc.,  at  some  distance  from  the 
flanks  of  the  main  column.  They  usually  consist  of  from  ten  to 
twenty  men  (but  may  contain  the  maximum  strength  of  a 
patrol),  and  are  generally  detached  for  a  specific  reconnaissance, 
with  orders  to  rejoin  the  main  body  at  a  designated  rendezvous, 
when  the  object  of  the  reconnaissance  has  been  gained.  The 
patrol  should  avail  itself  of  every  practicable  opportunity  of 
communicating  witli  the  main*  column. 

Q.    When  may  flank  patrols  be  called  covering  patrols? 


CATECrnSM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  99 

A.  Flanking  patrols  of  the  maximum  strength  are  often  de- 
tached from  a  marching  column  to  reconnoiter  and  guard  roads 
crossing  the  line  of  march  dm'ing  the  passage  of  the  main  body. 
They  are  sometimes  called  coverUuj  patrols.  The  forces  employed 
on  this  duty  are,  however,  generally  larger  than  patrols,  and  are 
covering  detachments  charged  with  the  duties  of  a  containing 
force. 

The  Adz'Qjicc  Guard  Passing  Through  a  Tozvn. 

Q.    How  does  an  advance  guard  pass  through  a  town? 

A.  On  approaching  the  village  or  town,  the  advance  guard 
halts,  and  the  advance  party  moves  forward  to  reconnoiter;  the 
point,  well  in  advance,  acting  as  already  prescribed  for  a  small 
patrol.  If  the  enemy's  presence  is  suspected,  the  village  must 
be  turned  by  a  portion  of  the  advance  party  or  support,  and  en- 
tered simultaneously  by  the  front  and  flank.  If,  on  the  contrary, 
all  seems  well,  the  point  signals  to  the  rear  and  advances  up  the 
principal  street,  the  advance  party  following  at  a  suitable  dis- 
tance, its  flanlvcrs  worlving  up  the  side  streets,  always  keeping 
up  communication  with  the  advance  party  and  with  the  flank 
patrols— if  tliere  be  any.  The  support  follows  at  a  suitable  dis- 
tance, tlie  reserve  remaining  at  the  edge  of  the  village  until  the 
patrols  haA'e  gone  through.  If  the  point  discovers  that  the  vil- 
lage is  occupied  by  the  enemy,  it  falls  back  quickly  and  quietly 
to  th^  advance  party,  whose  commander  immediately  sends  in- 
formation to  the  rear.  The  support  at  once  comes  up,  and  the 
commander  of  the  support  in  the  case  of  a  large  advance  guard, 
or  of  the  advance  guard  in  the  case  of  a  small  one,  makes  dis- 
positions for  a- reconnaissance  of  the  village,  with  a  view  to  ascer- 
taining the  most  practicable  point  for  forcing  it.  A  village  is 
approached  at  night  in  the  same  manner  as  by  day,  with  the 
exception  that  the  distances  and  intervals  between  the  different 
parts  of  the  advance  guard  are  less. 


100  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

Q.  How  does  a  strong  patrol  reconnoiter  and  enter  a 
village? 

A.  In  the  same  manner  as  the  advance  guard  of  a  larger 
force. 

Cavalry  Patrols. 

Q.  What  are  the  essential  differences  between  a  cavalry 
and  an;inf antry  patrol  ? 

A.  Owing  to  the  greater  mobility  of  cavalry,  the  distances 
and  intervals  separating  the  scouts  from  each  other  and  from 
the  main  body  of  the  patrol  are  greater  than  in  infantry.  In 
very  open  country  the  cavalry  scouts  may  sometimes  be  as  far 
as  1,000  yards  apart.  Another  essential  difference  in  the  con- 
duct of  infantry  and  cavalry  patrols,  depending  also  upon  the 
superior  mobility  of  the  latter,  is  the  detaching  of  scouts  from 
strong  cavalry  patrols.  These  scouts  are  not  merely  detached 
after  the  manner  of  the  flankers,  or  even  the  flank  patrols,  of  an 
advance  guard;  but  work  quite  independently,  joining  the  main 
body  of  the  patrol  at  fixed  rendezvous,  or  maintaining  connec- 
tion with  it  by  occasionally  sending  in  reports  to  its  commander. 
These  detached  scouts  usually  work  in  pairs,  one  man  being  in 
command,  and  may  be  sent  as  far  as  five  or  six  miles  from  the 
main  body  of  the  patrol.  Each  scout  should  understand  what 
he  is  to  look  for,  and  how  and  where  he  is  to  make  his  report. 

Q.  What  cavalry  soldiers  should  be  selected  for  patrol  duty, 
and  what  is  required  in  tlieir  inspection? 

A.  Intelligent  and  well-mounted  soldiers.  Before  starting 
out,  the  patrol  is  carefully  inspected  by  its  commander,  who,  in 
addition  to  seeing  that  his  men  are  in  proper  condition  and  prop- 
erly equipped  and  supplied,  assures  himself  that  his  horses  are 
in  good  condition  and  well  shod.  The  same  precautions  in  re- 
gard to  arms  and  accouterments  are  taken  as  in  the  case. of  an 
infantry  patrol. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  101 

Q.  What  general  rule  may  be  prescribed  for  the  formation 
of  a  cavalry  patrol,  and  how  do  the  members  of  the  patrol 
carry  their  firearms? 

A.  As  in  the  case  of  infantry,  no  rules  for  the  formation  of 
the  patrol  can  be  positively  prescribed,  except  the  general  and 
important  one,  that  the  patrol  must  always  be  so  formed  as  to 
facilitate  the  gaining  of  information,  and  insure,  if  possible,  the 
escape  of  at  least  one  man  if  the  patrol  should  be  cut  off.  It 
may  be  said,  however,  that  every  patrol,  however  small,  should, 
if  possible,  have  a  scout  detached  as  advance  guard,  and  another 
as  rear  guard.  When  the  size  of  the  patrol  permits,  flankers 
should  also  be  thrown  out.  All  the  men  of  a  small  patrol,  and 
the  point,  flankers,  and  rear  guard  of  a  strong  one,  should  have 
their  carbines  loaded  and  advanced,  or  the  pistol  at  the  position 
of  "raise"  or  "lower." 

Q.  What  are  the  distances  and  intervals  between  the  differ- 
ent parts  of  a  cavalry  patrol? 

A.  The  distances  and  intervals  between  different  parts  of 
a  patrol  depend  upon  circumstances.  They  should  not  be  so 
great  that  the  commander  could  not  easily  convey  his  commands 
by  voice  or  signal,  and  would  rarely  exceed  100  yards  except  in 
open  country.  At  night,  the  flankers  and  detached  scouts  should 
always  be  drawn  in,  unless  their  communication  with  the  main 
body  of  the  patrol  is  perfectly  secured. 

Q.  How  do  the  signals  of  a  cavalry  patrol  differ  from  those 
of  an  infantry  patrol,  and  what  additional  signals  may  be  used 
on  open  ground  ? 

A.  They  are  the  same  as  in  the  case  of  the  infantry  (substl- 
tiiting  cardine  for  riite),  with  the  exception  that  in  the  signal 
"Enemy  in  sight,"  the  carbine  is  held  up  in  one  hand  by  the 
small  of  the  stock,  and  to  ask  for  reinforcements  the  arm  is  ex- 
tended horizontally,  holding  the  piece  vertically,  and  given  a  c'r 
cular  motion  several  times. 

LIBRARY 

LOS  A'NCELES  COUNTY  MUSEUM 
EXPOSITION  PARK 


102  CATECtili^M  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

On  open  ground  the  following  signals  may  sometimes  be 
found  useful: 

Enemy  in  sight:  Move  in  a  circle  at  a  walk,  and  halt:  to  the 
right,  if  the  liostile  troops  are  cavalry;  to  the  left,  if  they  are 
infantry.  For  a  mixed  force,  describe  a  figure  eight.  This 
movement  may  be  repeated  as  often  as  necessary,  but  the  halt 
Bliould  always  be  distinct. 

Enemy  advancing:  Same  as  above,  except  that  the  circling 
is  continuous  and  at  a  trot.  If  the  enemy  is  advancing  rapidly 
or  in  heavy  force,  mal^e  the  signal  at  a  gallop. 

As  tlie  movements  of  the  scout,  wliile  making  these  signals, 
would  probably  be  seen  by  the  enemy,  they  should  be  used  only 
when  the  signals  with  the  carbine  might,  owing  to  distance,  be 
misimderstood. 

Q.    How  does  a  cavalry  patrol  conduct  itself  at  night? 

A.  At  night  it  must  rely  mainly  upon  its  sense  of  hearing. 
Strict  silence  should  be  maintained,  and  smoking  should  be  pro- 
hibited. Each  scout  should  watch  his  horse  for  indications  of 
danger,  not  only  at  night,  but  at  all  times;  and  if  the  animal 
pricks  up  his  ears  attentively  or  snorts  excitedly,  the  Avarning 
should  never  be  neglected,  but  the  cause  should  be  investigated. 

Q.  Why  must  a  cavalry  patrol  move  along  good  roads,  and 
what  precautions  should  it  take? 

A.  Though  exercising  the  utmost  vigilance,  and  endeavor- 
ing to  avoid  being  discovered,  a  cavalry  patrol  must  move  along 
good  roads.  To  do  otherwise  would  be  to  follow  by-paths  and 
traverse  difficult  ground,  where  the  horses  would  often  have  to 
be  led.  The  mobility  which  gives  a  cavalry  patrol  its  special 
value  would  thus  be  lost,  and  the  patrol  would  not  be  worth  ^as 
much  as  one  composed  of  infantry;  for  the  horses  would  become 
a  mere  bm-den.  The  patrol  should,  however,  always  move  upon 
soft  ground  or  sward  at  the  side  of  the  road,  if  it  be  practicable 
to  do  so,  and  should  always  move  with  the  least  possible  noise. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  ,103 

Q.  Why  should  the  patrol  commander  adhere  to  the  road 
selected  ? 

A.  He  should  carefully  select  his  route  before  starting  out, 
and  should  adhere  to  it  unless  driven  away  by  force.  He  should 
clearly  indicate  the  places  of  rendezvous,  and  explain  to  the 
scouts,  as  far  as  practicable,  how  to  reach  tlaem.  If  the  route 
is  changed  after  the  scouts  are  sent  out,  they  are  likely  to  miss 
the  patrol,  and  the  patrol  commander  will  thus  be  left  in  great 
perplexity  for  the  want  of  reports  upon  which  his  subsequent 
movements  may  depend.  The  position  of  the  scouts  who  miss 
the  patrol  will  be  equally  embarrassing;  and  the  patrol  being 
helplessly  scattered,  its  reconnaissance  will  probably  come  to 
naught. 

Q.  In  what  details  of  the  reconnaissance  of  different  kinds 
of  ground  do  the  operations  of  a  cavalry  patrol  differ  from  those 
of  an  infantry  pati'ol  ? 

A.  The  general  manner  of  reconnoiterinj*  different  kinds 
of  ground  is  the  same  as  in  the  case  of  infantry  patrols; 
but  the  following  details  should  be  noted:  Scouts  should  peep 
around  every  corner  or  turn  in  the  road  before  riding  on.  If 
they  come  to  an  object  too  extensive  to  be  reconnoitered  without 
assistance,  they  must  signal  for  reinforcements,  or  one  man 
must  ride  back  and  report  to  the  patrol  commander,  while  the 
others  remain  in  observation.  If  obstacles  are  encountered  on 
the  road,  such  as  barricades  or  felled  trees,  the  patrol  must,  if 
possible,  move  round  them  and  continue  its  reconnaissance.  If 
the  patrol  can  remove  the  obstacle,  it  does  so;  otherwise,  or  if  a 
bridge  is  broken,  word  must  be  sent  back,  if  a  column  is 
following. 

In  ascending  a  hill,  a  scout  should  not  ride  quite  to  the  top; 
but,  unless  time  is  urgent,  should  halt  at  a  short  distance  from 
the  crest  and  then  advance  with  caution.  It  may  often  be  well 
for  two  scouts  to  approach  the  crest  together,  one  of  them  dis- 


x04  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

mounting  and  reconnoitering  the  crest  on  foot  while  the  other 
holds  his  horse. 

A  cavalry  patrol  or  advance  guard  approaches  a  town  or  vil- 
lage in  practically  the  same  manner  as  corresponding  bodies  of 
infantry.  A  city  or  large  town  should  ordinarily  be  avoided  by 
a  reconnoitering  f)arty;  but  after  a  victory,  when  the  enemy  is 
demoralized,  more  may  be  dared  than  would  otherwise  be 
possible. 

Q.  If  necessary  to  halt  to  feed  or  water,  what  places  should 
be  avoided,  and  what  selected  ? 

A.  As  a  rule,  a  patrol  should  not  halt  at  inhabited  places, 
taverns,  etc.,  or  enter  an  inclosure.  If  it  is  necessary  to  halt  to 
feed  or  water  the  horses,  some  secluded  place  should  be  selected, 
which  could  be  guarded  by  sentinels  in  concealed  positions. 

Q.    Are  patrols  generally  expected  to  fight? 

A.  As  a  rule,  patrols  do  not  fight,  except  to  escape  capture; 
but  when  there  is  a  line  of  patrols  whose  front  is  covered  with 
detached  scouts,  each  scout  and  each  patrol  may  be  charged  with 
a  certain  amount  of  resistance,  in  order  to  gain  time  for  the  bodies 
in  rear. 

Q.  Of  what  are  connecting  patrols  always  composed,  and 
how  do  they  operate? 

A.  They  are  always  composed  of  cavalry.  They  keep 
in  the  intervals  between  the  different  bodies,  and  detach 
scouts  to  the  front  and  flanks.  The  scouts  to  the  front 
watch  the  enemy;  those  on  the  flanks  observe  all  movements 
and  changes  of  position  of  the  body  of  troops  nearest  them,  with 
which  they  keep  in  constant  communication.  The  commander 
of  the  patrol  keeps  the  body  of  troops  on  either  flank  informed  of 
the  movements  of  the  other.  If  the  army  is  moving  on  parallel 
roads,  in  a  close  country,  the  connecting  patrols  must  be  detached 
from  the  cavalry  at  the  head  of  each  column.  In  this  case  they 
communicate  at  each  lateral  road,  and  each  column  is  thus  kept 


catechi>;m  of  outpost  duty.  105 

informed  of  the  progress  of  its  neighbor,  and  of  the  condition  of 
affairs  along  the  entire  front.  If  the  army  is  marching  on  par- 
allel roads  in  a  sufficiently  open  country,  a  chain  of  patrols  ex- 
tends along  its  front,  tlius  linking,  as  it  were,  the  different  col- 
umns.   Connecting  patrols  are  always  strong. 

Q.    What  are  the  composition  and  duties  of  "pursuing  patrols? 

A.  They  are  always  composed  of  cavalry,  and  may  be  either 
small  or  strong.  They  keep  on  the  trail  of  the  enemy,  do  not 
lose  contact  with  him,  and  keep  their  own  army  fully  informed 
of  his  movements.  T\iqj  should  have  definite  orders  as  to  the 
distance  to  which  they  are  to  pursue,  and  the  matters  which  it 
may  be  specially  desirable  to  report.  Pursuing  patrols  must 
not  beconfoimded  with  a  pursuing  force  following  headlong  upon 
the  heels  of  a  routed  army  to  complete  the  destruction  of  battle. 
They  merely  follow,  watch,  and  hang  on  an  arniy  that  is  retreat- 
ing without  demoralization,  in  order  that  touch  with  it  may  not 
be  lost.  To  gain  and  transmit  information  are  the  objects  of  a 
pursuing  patrol,  and  the  capture  of  prisoners,  or  the  picking  up 
of  stragglers,  must  be  sought  only  with  a  view  to  gaining  in- 
formation. 

Officers'  Patrols. 

Q.    What  is  an  officer's  patrol? 

A.  It  is  a  patrol  under  the  command  of  a  commissioned  offi- 
cer, generally  varying  in  strength  from  two  to  ten  men.  Some- 
times it  consists  of  one  or  two  officers  alone. 

Q.  How  far  does  an  officer's  patrol  ordinarily  go  from  the 
command  from  which  it  is  taken? 

A.  Generally  not  more  than  six  miles;  but  it  may  be  called 
upon  to  make  very  long  and  exhausting  rides,  and  the  men  and 
horses  should,  therefore,  be  very  carefully  chosen.  It  may 
go  very  much  farther  than  the  ordinary  scouting  patrols,  de- 
pending while  gone  entirely  upon  its  own  resom-ces. 


106  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  • 

Q.  When  should  a  patrol  sent  out  on  a  special  mission 
return  V 

A.  It  should  return  the  moment  its  object  is  accomplished, 
without  undertaking  other  objects  on  its  own  responsibility. 
Care  should  be  taken  that  neither  too  many  missions  nor  too 
great  an  extent  of  ground  be  assigned  to  a  single  patrol. 

Q.  What  precaution  should  tlie  members  of  a  patrol  take  in 
regard  to  papers  on  their  persons  ? 

A.  They  should  not  have  on  their  persons  any  papers  that 
could  give  information  to  the  enemy.  They  shoald  commit  their 
orders  to  memory,  and  then  destroy  the  printed  or  written  copy. 

Q.  For  what  duty  are  officers'  patrols  especially  valuable, 
and  in  entering  a  village  or  town  Avhat  should  they  do? 

A.  Owing  to  the  superior  celerity  and  efficiency  of  officers' 
patrols,  they  are  especially  valuable  in  seizing  post-offices,  tele- 
graph stations,  etc.  In  entering  a  village  or  town  in  the  enemy's 
country,  tlie  greatest  safety  is  found  in  the  sudden  appearance 
and  prompt  disappearance  of  the  party.  The  patrol  should 
luickly  ga'n  the  desired  information,  or  seize  the  persons  or  docu- 
ments constituting  its  object,  and  should  disappear  before  the 
inhabitants  recover  from  their  astonishment  sufficiently  to 
appreciate  how  small,  or  how  isolated,  the  party  is. 

REAR  GUARDS. 

Q.  How  is  the  withdrawal  of  a  defeated  army  covered  on 
the  field  of  battle,  and  when  does  the  duty  of  the  rear  guard 
begin? 

A.  On  the  field  itself  the  withdrawal  is  covered  by  the 
artillery  and  cavalry,  especially  the  latter  when  the  ground 
favors  its  action;  and  it  is  only  when  the  first  halt  is  effected 
that  the  rear  guard  can  be  organized  and  a  regular  retreat  begun. 

Q.  Why  is  it  that  a  retreating  army  can  be  protected  by  a 
fiHiction  of  itself? 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  10? 

Q,  Because  the  enemy  must  change  from  order  of  battle  to 
order  of  march  to  pursue,  and  he  can  at  first  bring  only  the  heads 
of  his  columns  against  the  rear  of  the  retreating  force. 

Q.    Why  must  a  rear  guard  be  organized  as  soon  as  possible? 

A.  The  rear  guard  must  be  organize(i  as  soon  as  possible, 
even  at  the  expense  of  a  delay  comparatively  near  the  enemy; 
for  to  trust  to  speed  entirely  in  escaping  would  be  to  make  such 
long  and  continued  forced  marches  as  to  ruin  the  efficiency  of 
the  army  and  disintegrate  it  by  straggling. 

Q.  By  what  must  the  rear  guard  profit,  and  what  two 
courses  of  action  are  then  open  to  the  enemy's  choice? 

A.  The  rear  guard  must  profit  to  the  utmost  by  the  defensive 
features  of  the  ground,  and  at  every  opportunity  take  up  a 
defensive  position.  The  enemy  will  then  have  but  two 
coiu^ses  of  action  open  to  his  choice:  either  to  attack  with  the 
heads  of  his  columns,  or  to  deploy  for  action.  In  the  former,  his 
advanced  troops  should  be  easily  repulsed;  in  the  latter,  he 
Avill  be  compelled  to  lose  time  in  deploying,  while  the  rear 
guard  (which  should  wait  imtil  the  enemy's  <lispositions  for 
ittack  are  about  completed)  should  quickly  ploy  and  disappear 
from  his  front,  only  to  repeat  the  operation  at  the  next  favorable 
ground.  In  the  mea-ntime,  the  enemy,  unable  to  advance  quickly 
in  deployed  lines,  again  loses  time  in  changing  to  a  marching 
formation,  and  the  main  body  of  the  reti'eating  army  steadily 
continues  on  its  way  without  halting. 

Q.  What  is  the  strength  of  the  rear  guard  under  various 
conditions,  and  what  are  the  objections  to  having  it  too  large  or 
too  small? 

A.  The  strength  of  the  rear  guard  depends  upon  the  nature 
of  the  country,  and  the  strength  and  character  of  the  pursuing 
force.  In  a  broken  country  full  of  good  defensive  positions,  it 
would  be  less  than  in  an  open  country;  and  it  would  be  irrp'^tpr 
when  the  pursuit  was  vigorously  pushed  in  force  than  when  H 
was  feebly  conducted  by  small  parties.    As  a  rule,  it  corresponds 


108  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

to  the  strength  of  au  advance  guard  on  a  forward  march;  and 
would;  consequently,  vary  from  one-eighth  to  one-third  of  the 
entire  force— generally  consisting  of  about  one-sixth.  Care  and 
good  judgment  are  necessary  in  determining  the  strength  of  the 
rear  guard.  If  it  were  too  large,  too  many  troops  would  be 
kept  upon  a  peculiarly  trying  duty,  and  the  object  of  the  com- 
mander to  withdraw  quickly  as  many  men  as  possible  to  a  place 
of  safety  would  be  thwarted.  If  it  were  too  small,  it  would  be 
continually  driven  in  upon  the  main  body,  to  which  it  would 
communicate  alarm  and  confusion;  and  the  latter  might  even 
be  compelled  to  halt  and  fight  for  the  protection  of  the  rear 
guard. 

Q.  What  troops  should  be  selected  for  the  rear  guard,  and 
w^hat  should  be  done  to  raise  their  moral? 

A.  The  best  troops  should  be  selected;  generally  those 
which  have  suffered  least  in  the  battle,  or  which  have  gained 
therein  some  local  success.  It  rarely  happens  that  an  army  is 
defeated  on  every  part  of  the  field,  and  troops,  finding  every- 
thing prospering  in  their  front,  are  often  perplexed  and  indig- 
nant at  an  order  to  withdraw,  the  necessity  for  which  they  do 
not  understand.  These  are  the  troops  to  select  for  the  rear 
guard;  and  their  moral  should  be  still  further  raised,  if  practica- 
ble, by  occasional  ambuscades  or  offensive  returns  against  the 
enemy,  whenever  an  opportunity  of  taking  him  at  a  disadvantage 
occurs. 

Q.    When,  and  how,  should  offensive  returns  be  made? 

A.  They  are  generally  made  when  the  rear  guard  is  closely 
pressed  by  the  enemy  at  a  bridge,  defile,  or  ford.  They  should 
not  be  pushed  far;  for  their  result,  at  best,  can  only  be  a  moral 
one,  and  the  distance  between  the  main  body  and  the  rear 
.guard  must  not  be  dangerously  increased. 

Q.  What  qualities  should  be  possessed  by  the  commander 
'Of  the  rear  guard,  and  (briefly)  bow  should  he  conduct  its 
tojperajtions? 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  109 

A.  He  should  be  as  prudent  as  a  man  can  be  without  being 
timid,  and  as  brave  as  a  man  can  be  without  being 
rash.  He  should  constantly  present  a  bold  front  to  the  enemy, 
and  should  ever  be  ready  to  fight,  even  to  the  extent  of  sacrific- 
ing himself  and  his  entire  command  if  necessary;  but  he  should 
remember  that  the  great  duty  of  the  rear  guard  is  to  gain  time, 
and  he  should  know  when  to  withdraw.  He  should  be  able  to 
distinguish  the  enemy's  preparations  for  a  serious,  attack  from 
insignificant  demonstrations,  and  he  should  never  allow  the 
enemy  to  force  him  into  a  fight  conti-ary  to  his  own  interests  and 
intentions.  He  should  never  expect  assistance,  and  should  feel 
disgraced  if  the  main  body  should  be  obliged  to  suspend  its  re- 
treat to  come  to  his  aid. 

Q.  In  general  terms,  what  is  the  distance  of  the  main  body 
from  the  rear  guard,  and  what  are  the  objections  to  having  it  too 
great  or  too  small  ? 

A.  As  the  main  body  seeks  to  withdraw  from  the  enemy  as 
rapidly  as  possible,  whil^the  rear  guard  endeavors  to  delay  him 
and  watch  his  movements,  it  is  clear  that  the  distance  between 
the  two  bodies  can  not  be  definitely  prescribed.  In  general 
terms,  it  may  be  said  to  be  usually  about  the  same  as  that  of  the 
advance  guard  from  the  main  body  on  advance.  If  the  distance 
were  too  great,  the  rear  guard  would  be  in  danger  of  being  cut 
off;  if  the  distance  were  too  small,  the  main  body  would  be  sub- 
ject to  constant  alarms,  and  each  reverse  of  the  rear  guard  would 
quickly  affect  the  main  body,  whose  retreat  would  be  constantly 
harassed  by  the  enemy.  In  marching  at  night,  the  rear  guard 
draws  near  the  column,  especially  if  the  night  is  dark,  the  enemy 
near,  and  the  inhabitants  inimical. 

Q.    What  is  the  formation  of  the  rear  guard? 

A.  It  is  that  of  an  advance  guard  reversed.  Nearest  the 
main  body  is  the  reserve,  after  which  follow  the  support  and  the 
rear  party,  the  extreme  rear  being  composed  of  a  point.    The  dis- 


110  CATECEWM  OF  OUTPOST  DVT7. 

tances  between  the  various  bodies  composing  the  rear  guard  are 
the  same  as  those  between  the  corresponding  bodies  of  the  ad- 
vance guard.  Flankers  are  thrown  out  as  in  the  case  of  an 
advance  guard,  but  they  are  more  numerous,  and  the  line  join- 
ing them  is  a  more  pronounced  curve,  for  the  reason  that  flank 
attacks  are  more  to  be  feared  than  in  the  case  of  an  advance 
guard,  and  the  flanks  must,  therefore,  be  more  carefully  covered, 

Q.  Why  are  flank  attacks  more  to  be  feared  by  a  rear  guai'd 
than  by  an  advance  guard  ? 

A.  In  an  advance,  an  attempt  against  a  flank  of  the  advance 
guard  might  easily  result  in  the  assailing  troops  being  them- 
selves struck  in  flank  by  troops  from  the  main  body;  but  in  a 
retrograde  movement  the  main  body  is  moving  away  from,  in- 
stead of  towards,  the  covering  detachment,  and  thus  a  flank  at- 
tack upon  the  rear  guard  must  be  met  by  the  rear  guard  itself, 
or  else  the  main  body  must  halt  and  march  back  to  its  assistance. 
According  to  circumstances,  a  portion  or  the  whole  of  the  rear 
guard  will  march  in  readiness  for  actid^i. 

Q.    Of  what  arms  should  the  rear  guard  be  composed? 

A.  The  composition  of  a  rear  guard  is  practically  the  same 
as  that  of  an  advance  guard.  It  is  generally  composed  of  all 
three  arms;  but  if  there  are  enough  cavalry  and  horse  artillery 
to  admit  of  the  rear  guard  being  composed  exclusively  of  those 
arms,  it  would  be  best,  except  in  a  very  close  and  rugged  coun- 
try, to  leave  the  infantry  with  the  main  body. 

Q.  How  many  guns  should  there  be  with  the  rear  guard, 
and  what  may  their  effective  use  do  ? 

A.  There  should  be  as  many  guns  with  the  rear  guard  as  can 
be  effectively  used  and  freely  maneuvered.  The  effective  us-^  <  f 
artillery  may  obviate  the  necessity  of  deploying  the  other  armr, 
of  the  rear  guard,  the  deployment  of  the  enemy  at  a  distance 
being  compelled  by  the  fire  of  the  guns. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  Ill 

Q.  How  should  the  artillery  of  the  rear  guard  be  used,  and 
what  should  be  done  if  it  becomes  necessary  to  abandon  the 
guns  ? 

A.  The  fire  of  the  artillery  at  short  range  should  be  as  rapid 
as  is  compatible  with  its  cool  and  intelligent  action:  when  the 
rear  guard  is  pressed  by  the  enemy,  it  is  necessary  to  fire  as 
many  shots  as  possible,  and  still  more  necessary  that  each  one 
should  count.  If  it  becomes  necessary  to  abandon  the  guns,  the 
equipments  and  breech-blocks  should  be  carried  away,  and,  if 
practicable,  one  wheel  should  be  removed  from  each  and  run  to 
the  rear,  so  that  if  the  pieces  are  recaptured  they  can  be  at 
once  used.  If  there  seems  to  be  no  hope  of  recovering  the  lost 
pieces,  the  guns  should  be  burst  and  the  caissons  blown  up;  or, 
at  least,  the  breech-blocks  should  be  broken  off,  damaged,  or 
thrown  into  a  stream  or  well.  The  danger  of  losing  a  few  guns 
must  never  be  made  an  excuse  for  a  prematm'e  withdrawal. 

Q.    How  should  cavalry  be  used  with  the  rear  guard? 

A.  The  cavalry  of  the  rear  guard  can  charge  bodies  of  the 
enemy  that  have  been  thrown  into  confusion  by  the  ardor  of 
pursuit,  or  by  the  fire  of  the  artillery;  but  its  chief  reliance 
should  be  in  dismounted  fire  action.  It  can  take  up  almost  any 
position  that  the  infantry  can,  and  thus  compel  the  deployment 
and  retardation  of  the  enemy,  while  its  superior  mobility  enables 
it  rapidly  to  diminish  the  distance  between  the  main  body  and 
the  rear  guard,  always  dangerously  increased  by  a  stubborn 
stand  of  the  latter.  Good  cavalry  of  the  American  type  is  the 
life  of  a  rear  guard.  A  rear  guard  entirely  without  cavalry, 
except  in  a  region  where  that  arm  can  not  be  used,  is  at  an  enor- 
mous disadvantage,  unless  the  enemy  is  also  without  mounted 
troops. 

Q.  How  are  the  several  arms  arranged  in  a  rear  gaiird  com- 
posed of  all  arms  ? 


112  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

A.  The  infantry  should  be  with  the  reserve,  and  the  cavalry 
with  the  support  and  rear  party.  If  the  cavalry  is  not  in  suffi- 
cient strength  for  the  entire  support,  the  deficiency  must,  of 
course,  be  made  up  from  the  infantry.  The  artillery  should  be 
with  the  reserve;  but  horse  artillery  may  sometimes  accompany 
the  support.  The  engineers  should  be  at  the  rear  of  the  reserve 
or  at  the  head  of  the  support.  Machine-guns  may  be  used  with 
effect  by  the  rear  guard.  They  should  generally  be  with  the 
support. 

Q.    What  should  be  done  with  the  baggage  of  the  rear  guard? 

A.  It  should  be  sent  forward  to  the  main  column ;  or,  if  that 
be  impracticable,  all  that  is  not  absolutely  necessary  should  be 
destroyed,  and  the  remainder  kept  with  the  reserve. 

Q.    How  may  a  rear  guard  be  described  ? 

A.  As  a  reversed  advance  guard  with  more  flankers.  Thus, 
in^the  case  of  a  company  of  infantry  (Plate  VIII),  flankers  are 
thrown  out  from  the  resei-ve.  In  the  case  of  a  troop  of  cavalry 
(Plate  IX),  tlie  reserve  throws  out  a  double  patrol  on  each 
flank,  similar  to  the  one  thrown  out  from  the  support  in  the 
case  of  an  advance  guard,  the  larger  patrols  being  on  the  more 
dangerous  flank.  The  support  sends  out  flanking  groups  which 
march  at  a  distance  of  about  600  yards  from  the  line  of  march 
of  the  column.  These  typical  formations  are,  of  course,  merely 
suggestive;  they  must  be  modified  to  suit  the  circumstances  of 
each  case.  Rear  guards  composed  of  larger  bodies  are  similarly 
formed.  In  an  open  country,  the  reserve  may  sometimes  be 
advantageously  formed  in  two  parallel  columns. 

Q.  How  is  the  withdrawal  of  the  rear  guard  from  action 
executed  ? 

A.  The  manner  of  withdrawing  a  rear  guard  from  action 
will  depend  entirely  upon  circumstances.  As  a  rule,  only  a  por- 
tion should  withdraw  at  a  time,  taking  up,  if  necessary,  a  new 
position,  to  cover  the  withdrawal  of  the  rest.    The  guns  espe- 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  113 

cially  must  not  all  withdraw  at  once,  as  the  total  cessation  of 
artillery  fire  would  betray  the  movement.  Whether  the  with 
drawal  should  be  by  alternate  battalions,  or  whether  it  should 
begin  at  the  center  or  at  a  flank,  would  depend  upon  the  direc- 
tion and  progress  of  the  attack  and  the  topography  of  the  field. 
Generally,  the  infantry  and  a  portion  of  the  guns  withdraw 
first;  and  when  they  are  again  in  position  or  en  route,  they  are 
followed  by  the  remaining  guns  and  the  cavalry. 

Q.  What  precautions  should  be  taken  to  insure  the  right 
road  being  followed  by  the  rear  guard  ? 

A.  Uninteri-upted  communication  must  be  maintained  be- 
tween the  several  parts  of  the  rear  guard  and  the  main  body. 
The  road  should  be  carefully  marked,  so  that  the  rear  guard  may 
not  lose  its  way.  The  trail  of  a  retreating  force  is  usually  only 
too  plain;  but  it  is  well  to  leave  a  patrol  at  cross-roads,  etc.,  with 
orders  to  rejoin  the  main  body  as  soon  as  the  proper  road  has 
been  taken  by  the  rear  guard.  Similar  precautions  must,  when 
necessary,  be  taken  by  the  reserve  to  insure  the  proper  direction 
being  taken  by  the  support. 

Q.  Why  must  the  flanks  of  a  rear  guard  be  guarded  with 
especial  care,  and  what  provision  is  made  for  protecting  them 
from  surprise? 

A.  Patrolling  must  be  canned  on  with  vigilauce  and  energy, 
especially  on  the  flanks.  The  enemy,  finding  a  firm  front  opposed 
to  all  his  direct  attacks,  will  undoubtedly  attempt  to  cut  in  on 
the  flanks,  where,  in  fact,  always  lie  his  most  promising  hopes  of 
success;  for  if  he  can  cause  the  rear  guard  to  form  front  to  a 
flank,  any  assault  by  which  it  can  be  pushed  off  the  road  will 
uncover  the  rear  of  the  main  body,  and  will  be  only  less  disas- 
trous to  the  retreating  army  than  the  destruction  of  the  rear 
guard  itself.  Prompt  notification  of  attempts  against  the  flanks 
should  be  given  by  the  patrols  (who  are  often  warned  of  them 
by  a  diminution  of  the  enemy's  forces  following  in  rear),  and 


PLATE   VIII. 
COMPANY  OF  INFANTRY  AS  REAR  GUARD 


••\. 


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1  PLATOON  "ipi*'      RESERVE 


./ 


■^^ 


1  SECTION   ■     SUPPORT 


1  SECTION    ^^REAR  P*"I^ 


POINT 


PLATE  IX. 


TROOP  OF  CAVALRY  AS  REAR  GUARD 


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^t 300  YDS..— -^ 300  YDS.-    -f  * 

*  REAR    o  PARTY.  < 


116  CATECnhSM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

the  rear  guard  should  then  endeavor  with  celerity  to  slip  past 
the  menaced  point;  failing  in  this,  it  should  form  a  strong  front 
towards  the  attacking  force. 

Q.  If  the  two  armies  are  of  approximately  equal  strength, 
why  should  the  rear  guard  have,  at  first,  an  advantage  over  the 
opposing  advance  guard;  and  why  does  not  this  advantage 
continue  ? 

A.  If  two  armies  are  of  approximately  equal  strength,  the 
rear  guard  will  be  about  as  sti'ong  as  the  advance  guard  of  the 
force  pursuing  it,  and  the  advantage  of  a  good  defensive  position 
should  give  it  a  superiority  over  the  latter.  But  this  superiority 
will  be  only  temporary  at  best;  for  the  advance  guard  is  receiv- 
ing constant  accessions  of  strength  from  the  rear,  while  the  dis- 
tance between  the  rear  guard  and  the  main  body  of  the  retreat- 
ing force  is  constantly  increasing.  Hence,  the  longer  the  rear 
guard  remains  in  its  position,  the  greater  will  be  the  odds  against 
it.  If  it  does  not  remain  long  enough,  the  enemy's  advance  will 
not  be  seriously  delayed;  while  if  it  remains  too  long,  it  will 
suffer  heavily  in  the  engagement. 

Q.    In  regard  to  what  is  the  pursuing  army  always  in  doubt? 

A.  The  pursuing  army  will  always  be  in  more  or  less  doubt 
as  to  the  strength  of  the  force  which  it  finds  barring  its  way, 
and  it  must  act  with  prudence,  or  run  the  risk  of  a  serious  and 
costly  repulse.  The  moral  of  the  retreating  force  is  also  a  matter 
of  uncertainty  to  the  pursuers,  and  this  consideration  also  for- 
bids rash  action. 

Q.  What  advantage  has  the  rear  guard  over  the  pursuing 
force  in  regard  to  the  ground? 

A.  It  is  not  obliged  to  reconnoiter  the  ground  over  which  it 
has  to  march.  All  necessary  information  as  to  the  roads  is  fm*- 
nished  from  the  front,  and  a  well-qualified  staff-ofiicer  with  the 
main  body  should  select  defensive  positions  for  the  rear  guard, 
and  furnish  its  commander  with  a  description  (and,  if  possible, 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  117 

a  topographical  sketch)  of  the  same.      The  positions  would  be 
ridges,  sunken  roads,  villages,  woods,  bridges,  or  defiles. 

Q.  When  should  the  rear  guai'd  make  use  of  defensive 
positions? 

A.  When  it  is  essential  that  the  army  should  put  distance 
between  itself  and  the  enemy,  the  rear  giiard  must  make  use  of 
every  good  defensive  position  to  delay  the  pursuers;  but  no  halt 
should  be  made  for  fighting  when  the  necessity  of  checking  the 
enemy  and  gaining  time  is  not  imperative. 

Q.  How  long  should  the  rear  guard  occupy  a  defensive 
position? 

A.  The  rear  guard  must  not  be  tempted  by  the  great  natural 
strength  of  a  position  to  occupy  it  at  the  expense  of  being  sepa- 
rated at  too  great  a  distance  from  the  main  body,  nor  to  hold  it 
so  long  as  to  become  compromised  in  a  regular  engagement.  The 
amount  of  resistance  to  be  made  by  the  rear  guard  will  depend 
upon  the  judgment  of  its  commander,  or  on  the  orders  of  the 
commander-in-chief. 

Q.  To  what  extent  should  the  commander-in-chief  supervise 
the  operations  of  the  rear  guard  ? 

A.  At  very  important  positions,  he  should  join  the  rear 
guard,  if  necessary,  superintending  its  formation  for  resistance, 
or  even  conducting  its  action.  It  is  best,  however,  never  to  in- 
terfere with  the  commander  of  the  rear  guard,  if  he  understands 
his  business  and  performs  his  part  properly.  The  nature  of  his 
duty  requires  that  he  should  have  even  greater  independence  of 
action  than  the  commander  of  an  advance  guard. 

Q.  What  are  the  advantages  and  disadvantages  of  having 
an  intermediate  body  between  the  main  body  and  the  rear 
guard  ? 

A.  The  advance  guard  of  the  pursuing  force,  its  strength 
constantly  increasing,  can  act  boldly  to  the  flank;  and  the  rear 
guard  is  in  danger  of  being  intercepted,  and  finding  a  force  of 


118  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

the  enemy  barring  its  way  at  some  one  of  the  positions  selected 
for  its  own  defensive  stand.  This  danger  increases  with  the 
stubbornness  of  the  stand  made  by  the  rear  guard.  In  view  of 
these  considerations,  an  intermediate  body  might  march  midway 
between  tlie  reserve  of  the  rear  guard  and  the  main  body.  It 
would  thus  be  in  a  position  to  hold  important  points  until  the 
arrival  of  the  reserve,  which  points  it  might  even  have  time  to 
fortify,  while  preparing  at  the  same  time  for  the  destiiiction  of 
the  passages  at  tlie  selected  positions.  This  intermediate  body 
should  have  artillery,  especially  if  the  country  is  open  and  the 
enemy's  forces  are  able  to  make  turning  movements  with  celer- 
ity. When  the  enemy  shows  a  particular  tendency  to  execute 
flank  movements,  with  the  intention  of  separating  and  cutting  off 
the  different  detachments,  and  the  country  is  such  as  to  favor  his 
movements,  the  principal  column  might  leave  a  detachment  to 
hold  an  important  position  until  the  arrival  of  the  intermediate 
body.  Under  some  circumstances,  these  detachments  might  be 
imperatively  necessary;  but  the  system  is  open  to  the  objection 
that  the  detachments,  unless  composed  of  cavalry,  would  be  un- 
able to  rejoin  the  main  body,  which  would  thus  be  constantly 
reinforcing  the  rear  guard. 

Q.    Why  must  contact  with  the  pursuing  force  be  preserved  ? 

A.  Contact  with  the  pursuing  force  should  not  be  lost,  but 
its  movements  should  be  continually  watched;  otherwise  the 
army  might  be  flying  from  a  mere  phantom,  or  it  might  be  de- 
ceived as  to  the  objective  point  of  the  enemy's  attack.  The  ene- 
my might  continue  the  pursuit  with  a  small  force  on  the  main 
route,  and  move  the  bulk  of  his  army  on  a  parallel  road,  whence, 
after  making  unobstnicted  progress  to  the  front,  he  might  move 
in  to  cut  off  the  rear  guard  or  assail  it  in  flank, 

Q.  If  the  pursuit  seems  to  slacken  or  cease,  how  is  contact 
maintained,  and  what  will  often  be  necessary  to  ascertain  the 
nature  of  the  pursuit? 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  llg 

A.  If  the  pursuit  seems  to  slacken  or  cease,  contact  must  be 
maintained  by  strong  patrols,  each  patrol  generally  consisting 
of  a  platoon  under  command  of  an  officer.  Small  patrols  could 
not  drive  back  any  but  the  most  insignificant  forces  of  the  ene- 
my, and  could  not,  therefore,  learn  whether  the  pm-suit  were 
conducted  by  a  large  force  or  merely  by  small  parties.  The 
pa-trols  should  be  given  great  liberty  of  action,  and,  after  having 
been  informed  of  the  route  to  be  taken  by  the  main  body  in  re- 
treat, and  given  such  general  orders  as  may  be  necessary,  they 
should  be  left  quite  independent  of  the  rear  guard.  It  will  often 
be  necessary  to  act  vigorously  on  the  offensive  with  the  cavalry, 
in  order  to  ascertain  the  nature  of  the  pursuit.  If  the  enemy's 
advanced  troops,  when  repulsed,  fall  back  upon  larger  bodies  in 
rear,  the  enemy  is  evidently  pursuing  in  force;  if,  on  the  con- 
trary, they  are  driven  back  in  rapid  flight,  and  are  not  supported, 
the  enemy  either  is  not  attempting  a  serious  pursuit,  or  is  moving 
on  a  parallel  road. 

Q.  Why  do  defiles  offer  good  opportunities  to  an  energetic 
pursuer  and  to  an  able  rear  guard  commander? 

A.  To  the  former  they  afford  a  chance  of  cutting  off  the  rear 
guard  by  interposing  a  force  at  the  entrance  of  the  defile.  To 
the  latter  they  afford  a  double  opportunity  of  administering  a 
check  to  the  enemy,  who  is  compelled  to  narrow  liis  front. 

Q.    How  may  a  defile  be  defended  at  the  entrance? 

A.  If  practicable,  the  position  at  the  entrance  of  the  defile 
should  be  convex  towards  the  enemy,  so  as  to  admit  of  ready 
withdraAval  by  the  flanks.  At  the  outlet,  the  position  should,  on 
the  other  hand,  be  concave,  so  as  to  bring  a  converging  fire  upon 
the  enemy.  In  defending  a  defile,  the  main  body  leaves  a  de- 
tachment to  hold  the  heights  on  each  side  until  relieved  by  the 
infantry  of  the  rear  guard.  The  artillery  is  generally  stationed 
at  the  entrance  of  the  defile,  and  the  cavalry  in  the  best  position 
for  dismounted  fire  action— always  at  that  part  of  the  line  which 


120  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

is  to  withdraw  last.  As  soon  as  the  enemy  has  not  only  de- 
ployed for  attack,  but  is  well  committed  to  the  assault,  the 
artillery  fires  its  parting  round  of  shrapnel,  and  withdraws 
rapidly  through  the  defile,  followed  by  the  infantry.  The  cav- 
alry covers  the  withdrawal  of  the  other  arms,  mounting  at  the 
last  moment,  and  retreating  rapidly  through  the  defile,  its  re- 
treat being  protected,  if  practicable,  by  infantry  skirmishers  lin- 
ing the  crest  on  either  side  of  the  interior  of  the  defile. 

Q.    How  may  a  defile  be  defended  at  the  outlet? 

A.  The  outlet  of  the  defile  always  affords  a  better  position 
for  opposing  the  enemy  than  the  entrance;  for  in  making  a  stand 
with  a  defile  at  its  baclv,  the  rear  guard  runs  the  risk,  in  case  its 
flank  is  turned,  of  being  cut  off  altogether.  In  making  a  stand 
at  the  farther  side,  the  artillery  is  posted  so  as  to  rake  the  defile; 
and  the  infantry,  so  as  to  bring  a  converging  fire  on  its  outlet, 
detachments  of  infantry  also  holding  the  crest;  while  the  cav- 
alry is  stationed  so  as  to  be  able  to  charge  the  enemy  In  flank  as 
he  emerges  from  the  defile.  Enough  of  the  enemy  should  be 
allowed  to  pass  to  enable  the  assault  upon  him  to  be  more  than 
a  mere  sti'oke  at  the  head  of  his  column;  but  the  mistake  of 
allowing  too  many  to  pass  would  be  a  fatal  blunder.  Here  the 
judgment  of  the  rear  guard  commander  must  come  into  play, 
and  no  rule  or  suggestion  can  aid  him.  The  enemy  having  been 
severely  handled  and  thrown  back  into  the  defile,  the  rear  guard 
withdraws  without  delay. 

Q.    How  may  the  measures  of  the  rear  guard  be  classified? 

A.  As  positive  and  negative;  the  former  relating  to  the  de- 
lays caused  by  actual  or  threatened  combat,  and  the  latter  in- 
cluding all  measures  to  impede  his  progress  by  blocking  his 
path,  destroying  bridges,  etc. 

Q.    How  may  bridges  be  destroyed? 

A.  Bridges  may  be  burned,  blown  up,  or  torn  down.  In 
the  first  case,  if  time  permits,  the  timbers  should  be  coated  with 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  121 

tar,  or  saturated  with  coal  oil,  by  troops  from  the  main  body 
or  the  reserve,  and  fired  by  the  last  men  of  the  rear  detach- 
ment who  cross;  in  the  second  case,  the  charge  should  be 
similarly  placed  and  exploded;  and  in  the  third  case,  the  planks 
should  be  loosened  by  troops  in  advance,  and  thrown  into  the 
river  by  the  rear  point.  In  all  cases,  the  preparation  for  de- 
struction should  be  made  by  the  main  body  or  reserve,  and  the 
consummation  should  be  the  work  of  the  last  men  who  cross. 
Loaded  shells  placed  under  the  heaps  of  combustibles  would, 
by  biu*sting  at  intervals,  prevent  the  enemy  from  approaching 
to  extinguish  the  flames. 

Q.    How  may  fords  and  roads  be  obstructed? 

A.  Fords  can  be  obstructed  by  planting  therein  pointed 
stakes,  broken  bottles,or  harrows,  plows,  and  scythes,  so  arranged 
that  the  sharp  sides  and  points  are  uppermost.  Another  expedient 
is  to  throw  in  trees  with  the  branches  towards  the  enemy  and 
weighted  down  with  stones  in  sacks.  In  addition  to  these  meas- 
ures, the  banks  may  be  scarped,  and  an  epaulement  with  artil- 
lery established  on  the  side  opposite  the  enemy.  Boats  should 
be  taken  to  the  far  side  and  either  burnt  or  sunk.  Roads  can  be 
obstructed  by  felling  trees  across  them,  or  blowing  up  the  road- 
bed; and  gateways  and  passages  can  be  blocked  with  heavily 
laden  carts  dove-tailed  together,  one  wheel  being  removed  from 
each. 

Q.    How  may  villages  be  utilized  by  a  rear  guard? 

A.  Villages  may  be  fortified  in  some  cases,  but  generally  it 
will  be  more  expedient  to  burn  them,  and  thus  place  a  barricade 
of  fire,  s§  to  speak,  between  the  rear  guard  and  the  enemy;  but 
this  measure  will,  manifestly,  be  of  value  only  when  the  enemy 
is  following  close  upon  the  heels  of  the  rear  guard. 

Q.    What  should  always  be  resorted  to  b-y  the  rear  guard? 

A.  Any  means  of  producing  suffering  and  inconvenience  to 
the  pursuers,  such  as  to  cause  them  to  delay,  should  be  resorted 


122  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

to  by  the  rear  guard,  stoppiDg  only  at  such  measures  as  are  con- 
demned by  the  laws  of  war. 

Q.    Are  these  negative  measures  sufficient  in  themselves? 

A.  No.  They  are  merely  helps,  and  the  safety  of  the  retreat- 
ing force  must  depend  upon  the  resolute  action  of  the  rear  guard 
itself. 

Q.  What  should  be  done  with  stragglers,  and  with  the  sick 
and  wounded,  witli  the  rear  guard? 

A.  The  rear  guard  should  collect  all  stragglers  and  compel 
them  to  move  on,  and  it  should  not  allow  the  sick  or  wounded 
to  be  left  behind,  unless  they  prove  a  dangei'ous  encumbrance. 
When  necessary,  transportation  must  be  requisitioned  for  the 
sick  and  wounded,  and  they  should,  if  practicable,  be  sent  for- 
ward to  the  main  column  every  night.  When  it  is  found  neces- 
sary to  abandon  them,  they  should  be  formally  transferred  to 
the  authorities  of  some  village  or  town,  and  one  or  more  medi- 
cal officers,  with  a  liberal  supply  of  medical  stores  and  money, 
should  be  left  with  them.  With  the  exception  of  such  medical 
supplies,  no  stores  of  any  description  that  could  be  of  value  to 
the  enemy  should  be  left  behind;  what  can  not  be  carried  along 
must  be  destroyed. 

Q.    At' each  halt,  what  is  done  by  the  rear  guard? 

A.  It  chooses  a  good  defensive  position,  and  establishes  its 
outposts  towards  the  enemy.  It  is  desirable  that  the  position 
should  not  only  be  strong,  but  that  it  should  command  an  ex- 
tended view. 

Q.    How  is  the  rear  guard  relieved  when  practicable? 

A.  On  halting  for  the  night,  it  should,  when  practicable,  be 
relieved  by  other  troops.  The  new  guard  should  be  halted  at  a 
suitable  distance  from  the  point  selected  for  the  camp  or  bivouac 
of  the  main  body,  and  established  as  an  outpost.  When  it  is 
passed  by  the  old  rear  guard,  the  former  assumes  Its  duties,  and 
the  latter  joins  the  main  column.    In  the  case  of  either  an  ad- 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  123 

vance  guard  or  a  rear  guard,  the  distance  of  the  outpost  from  the 
main  body  will  depend  mainly  upon  the  time  required  for  the 
troops  to  turn  out  and  form  at  the  designated  rendezvous;  in 
the  latter  case,  however,  the  time  required  for  the  longest  column 
to  march  out  in  resuming  the  retreat  must  be  added,  no  allow- 
ance being  made  for  time  gained  by  the  resistance  of  the  rear 
guard.  The  distance  of  the  outpost  from  the  main  body  will, 
therefore,  be  greater  in  the  case  of  a  rear  guard  than  in  the  case 
of  an  advance  guard. 

Q.  When  an  army  is  retreating  by  several  parallel  roads, 
how  are  the  rear  guards  formed  and  commanded? 

A.  Each  column  will  then  have  its  own  rear  guard,  each 
rear  guard  having  its  own  chief,  and  all  being  united,  when 
practicable,  under  the  command  of  one  common  superior.  Con- 
nection should  be  maintained  betw^een  the  several  columns,  and 
between  the  different  rear  guards,  by  connecting  groups  or 
patrols. 

Q.  If  retreating  by  a  single  road,  when  may  secondary  rear 
guards  be  of  use? 

A.  If  retreating  by  a  single  route  to  which  several  other 
roads  are  near  and  parallel,  it  may  sometimes  be  advisable  to 
place  a  secondary  rear  guard  on  each.  This  would  practically 
amount  to  a  subdivision  of  the  rear  guard,  which  should,  conse- 
quently, be  of  a  greater  strength  proportionately  to  the  main 
body  than  would  otherwise  be  the  case.  The  necessity  for  these 
secondary  rear  guards  would  be  gi'eatest  when  there  were  many 
lateral  roads  .joining  the  parallel  routes,  and  such  roads,  con- 
versely, would  be  necessary  in  order  that  a  secondary  rear  guard 
might  not  be  left  entirely  without  support.  Generally,  vigilant 
scouting  to  the  flanks  will  obviate  the  necessity  of  secondary 
rear  guards. 

Q.  When  the  line  of  retreat  is  changed,  what  may  be  done 
with  the  rear  guard  ? 


124  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

A.  It  may  sometimes  be  advantageous  to  leave  the  rear 
guard  on  the  old  route  for  the  purpose  of  deceiving  the  enemy. 
Artillery  should  then  accompany  the  rear  guard,  not  only  to  add 
to  its  defensive  power,  but  to  give  it  the  appearance  of  a  force  of 
respectable  size.  A  small  rear  guard  should  follow  the  main 
body  in  the  new  direction. 

Q.  How  may  a  rear  guard  be  used  in  a  retrograde  movement 
which  is  not  a  retreat? 

A.  A  retrograde  movement  may  be  designedly  made  for  the 
purpose  of  leading  the  enemy  into  a  theater  where  the  condi- 
tions will  be  more  favorable  for  the  retiring  army;  or  a  move- 
ment may  be  undertaken  against  one  of  the  enemy's  armies  in 
such  a  way  as  to  expose  the  rear  to  another.  In  the  first  case, 
the  rear  guard  would  be  conducted  in  the  manner  already 
described.  In  the  latter  (unusual)  case,  the  advance  and  rear 
guards  would  be  of  equal  importance.  In  the  latter  case,  in  fact, 
it  would  be  better  to  leave  a  containing  force  to  hold  one  of  the 
hostile  armies  in  check  Avhile  proceeding  against  the  other. 

Q.  In  what  respects  are  the  duties  of  a  rear  guard  easier  in 
a  friendly  than  in  a  hostile  country? 

A.  In  the  former,  the  rear  guard  easily  finds  subsistence; 
guides  are  obtained  without  difficulty;  the  inhabitants  aid  in 
obstructing  or  destroying  roads  and  passages;  they  assist  in  en- 
terprises against  the  enemy;  and  they  remove'all  supplies  upon 
his  approach.  In  a  hostile  country,  however,  foraging  is  difficult 
for  the  rear  guard,  as  it  must  pass  over  a  country  alreadv  ex- 
liausted  by  the  main  column;  and  the  inhabitants,  far  from 
rendering  assistance  to  the  rear  guard,  are  ever  ready  to  turn 
against  it,  and  are  quite  sure  to  throw  all  manner  of  annoying 
obstacles  in  its  way. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  125 

The  Rear  Guard  in  a  Forward  March. 

Q.  What  are  the  duties  of  the  rear  guard  on  a  forward 
march  ? 

A.  The  rear  guard  should  never  begin  its  march  until  all 
the  baggage  has  moved  off.  The  provost-marshal  and  provost 
guard  generally  march  with  the  rear  guard,  which  takes  charge 
of  all  prisoners  arrested  by  them.  If  marching  in  a  hostile  coun- 
try, the  rear  guard  is  charged  with  the  protection  of  the  baggage 
from  the  forays  of  guerrillas,  and  if  the  country  is  suited  to  par- 
tisan warfare,  and  the  enemy's  raiding  parties  are  enterprising, 
its  duty  greatly  increases  in  importance.  It  should  carefully 
watch  the  flanks  of  the  baggage  train  with  patrols,  of  a  number 
and  size  suited  to  the  danger  to  be  apprehended,  and  should  be 
ready  to  repel  attacks  on  the  flanks  as  well  as  on  the  rear  of  the 
train, 

APPENDIX  I. 

On  the  march  an  army  is  screened  by  a  veil  of  cavalry,  which 
covers  its  movements,  reconnoiters  the  enemy,  and  prevents  him 
from  gaining  information  in  regard  to  the  strength,  dispositions, 
and  designs  of  the  force  in  rear.  As  a  inile,  the  screening  force 
is  at  least  one  march  in  advance  of  the  main  army.  When  the 
armies  are  concentrating,  at  the  beginning  of  a  campaign,  the 
screening  force  may  sometimes  be  pushed  many  miles  ahead;  but 
when  the  armies  begin  their  advance,  the  distance  is  usually  re- 
■duced  to  not  more  than  fifteen  or  twenty  miles,  diminishing  on 
contact  to  five  or  six,  and  finally  disappearing  altogether  when 
tactical  operations  begin — ^the  veil  then  separating,  and  uncover- 
ing the  front  of  the  army. 

As  a  rule,  the  front  of  each  army  corps  on  the  march  is  cov- 
ered with  a  brigade  of  .-cavalry,  the  front  of  the  cavalry  brigade  on 
screening  duty  averagin.a|ten  or  twelve  miles.  When  the  brigade 
constituting  the  cavalry  screen  is  operating  in  an  open  country, 


126  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

one  regiment  constitutes  the  reserve,  and  is  preceded  by  a  squad- 
ron of  eacli  of  tlie  otlier  regiments  at  a  distance  of  about  two  and 
a  half  miles.  These  squadrons,  constituting  the  supports,  are 
separated  by  an  interval  of  not  more  than  six  miles,  the  reserve 
being  situated  centrally  in  their  rear.  About  two  and  a  half 
miles  farther  to  the  front  is  the  second  squadron  of  each  ad- 
vanced regiment,  either  in  one  column,  or  in  two  columns  of  two 
troops  each.  These  are  termed  the  intermediate  squadrons. 
They  are  separated  by  about  the  same  interval  as  the  squadrons 
composing  the  supports.  About  two  and  a  half  miles  farther  to 
the  front,  the  remaining  squadron  of  each  regiment  is  disti'ibuted 
along  the  front  in  contact  troops,  which  are  preceded  at  suitable 
distances  by  patrols,  detailed  either  from  the  contact  troops,  the 
intermediate  squadrons,  or  the  supports.  When  necessary,  these 
patrols  detach  scouts  still  farther  to  the  front.  This  formation 
may  be  modified  in  many  ways;  the  great  requirement  of  the 
formation  of  the  screen  being  that  it  should  be  able  to  get  in- 
formation of  the  enemy  and  prevent  him  from  getting  informa- 
tion in  turn.  On  gaining  contact  with  the  enemy,  the  cavalry 
forming  the  screen  should  concentrate  to  fight;  for  the  best  way 
to  screen  an  army  is  by  defeating  and  driving  away  the  oppos- 
ing cavalry. 

The  following  rules  regulate  the  conduct  of  the  cavalry 
screen : 

1.  Explore  the  country  well  to  the  .Tont  with  small  patrols, 
which  must  not  lose  contact  with  tho  eiiemy. 

2.  Keep  the  supporting  bodies  well  ia  hand,  so  as  to  be  able 
to  concentrate  rapidly. 

3.  Always  maintain  a  reserve  when  near  the  enemy. 

4.  Keep  up  constant  communication  between  all  parts  of 
the  screen  and  with  the  troops  in  rear. 

5.  Always  form  and  maneuver  the  ^reen  with  a  view  to 
beating  the  opposing  cavalry.  Thi%  is  the  paramount  con- 
sideration. 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  127 

APPENDIX  11.  * 

Advance  Guard  Drill — Infantry. 

When  a  single  company  forms  the  advance  guard,  the  first 
section  constitutes  the  advance  party,  the  second  section  the 
support,  and  the  second  platoon  the  reserve.  The  company 
being  in  column  of  fours,  at  a  halt,  the  captain  commands: 
1.  Form  advance  guard,  2.  MARCH.  At  the  first  command  the 
first  sergeant  takes  command  of  the  first  section,  and  the  cor- 
poral of  the  first  four  exchanges  places  with  his  rear  rank  man. 
At  the  command  March,  the  front  rank  of  the  first  four,  under 
the  second  sergeant,  moves  to  the  front  as  a  point.  The  rear 
rank  of  the  first  and  the  front  ranlv  of  the  second  four  oblique 
to  the  left  and  right,  respectively,  to  form  flanking  groups. 
The  point  and  flankers  all  move  out  at  double  time,  reducing 
their  pace  to  quick  time  as  soon  as  they  reach  their  proper  posi- 
tions. The  first  sergeant  detaches  two  men  from  the  rear  rank 
of  the  second  fom-  to  march  as  connecting  files  between  the 
advance  party  and  the  support,  puts  the  other  two  in  the  line 
of  file-closers,  and  commands:  1.  Forward,  2.  MARCH,  the 
second  command  being  given  as  soon  as  the  point  has  gained 
its  proper  distance.  When  the  section  consists  of  only  two 
fours,  the  first  sergeant  marches  the  rear  rank  of  the  second 
fom-  forward,  and  the  ^necting  files  are  furnished  by  the 
support. 

The  first  lieutenai..  remaining  with  the  second  section)  com- 
mands: 1.  Forward,  2.  MARCH,  the  second  command  being 
given  as  soon  as  the  support  has  its  proper  distance.  He  then 
adds:  1.  Rear  four,  2.  liiglit  and  left  oUique,  3.  DouVe  time, 
4.  MARCH.  The  front  rank  of  the  rear  four  obliques  to  the 
right,  and  the  rear  rank  to  the  left,  at  double  time,  forming  the 
flankers  of  the  support,  and  taking  quick  time  on  gain'ng  their 
positions. 


128  CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTJ: 

» 
The  captain  (remaining  with  the  second  platoon)  commands: 

1.  Forward,  2.  ]MAIICH,  tlie  second  command  being  given  as 

soon  as  the  reserve  has  its  proper  distance.    Should  flanl^ers  be 

necessary  for  the  reserve,  they  are  then  sent  out,  at  double  time, 

by  the  same  commands  as  in  the  case  of  the  support,  from  tho 

rear  (or  rear  and  leading)  fours.    The  entire  advance  g.ard 

marches  at  attention,  tiie  advance  party  and  support  marching 

on  as  broad  a  front  as  practicable,  and  the  reserve  in  column  of 

fours. 

If  the  command  is:  1.  Form  advance  guard,  2.  Doultle  time, 
3.  MARCH,  the  point  and  flankers  move  out  as  alrealy  pre- 
scribed, but  do  not  reduce  their  pace  upon  gaining  their  po.si- 
tions.  The  advance  party,  the  support,  and  the  reserve  move 
forward  successively  at  double  time.  The  re  ^erve  takes  quick 
time  at  the  command  of  the  captain,  and  the  other  parts  of  the 
advance  guard  then  conform  to  the  pace  of  the  reserve. 

If  the  company  is  left  in  front,  the  duties  described  above 
for  the  first  lieutenant  will  be  performed  by  the  second  lieu- 
tenant, and  the  point  will  be  commanded  by  the  third  sergeant. 
In  either  case  the  first  sergeant  commands  the  section  consti- 
tuting the  advance  party. 

When  the  advance  guard  consists  of  an  entire  battalion, 
the  first  and  second  companies  constitute  the  vanguard,  and 
the  third  and  fourth  form  the  reserve.  The  vanguard  is  com- 
manded by  its  senior  captain.  The  major  command 5 :  1.  Form 
advance  guard,  2.  MARCH,  the  commands  being  repeated  by  the 
commander  of  the  vanguard.  The  point  and  flankers  move  out 
from  the  first  section  of  the  leading  company,  the  first  platoon 
of  this  company  ^constituting  the  advance  party.  The  first 
sergeant  does  not  take  command  of  th.'  first  section.  As  soon 
as  the  point  has-  gained  its  proper  distance,  the  lieutenant  com- 
manding the  first  platoon  moves  it  forward.    As  soon  as  the 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  129 

adviuice  party  lias  gained  its  proper  distance,  the  commander  of 
the  vanguard  commands:  1.  Forwanh  2.  MARCH,  immedi- 
ately adding,  1.  Rear  fours  first  and  second  companies,  2.  Ri^ht 
and  left  oMique,  3.  Double  time,  4.  MARCH.  The  fom-s  desig- 
nated move  out  as  flankers  in  the  manner  ah'eady  prescribe.!, 
those  of  the  first  company  being  slightly  in  advance  of,  and 
those  of  the  rear  company  slightly  in  rear  of,  the  support.  If 
only  one  group  of  flankers  is  needed  on  each  flank,  they  are 
formed  by  the  rear  four  of  the  first  company.  When  the  sup- 
port has  gained  its  proper  distance,  the  major  moves  the  reserve 
forward,  and  orders  flankers  out  from  the  reserve,  if  necessary, 
in  the  same  way  as  from  the  support. 

In  the  case  of  tw^o  battalions  forming  the  advance  guard  of 
a  brigade,  the  major  commanding  the  first  battalion,  upon  re- 
ceiving instructions  from  the  commander  of  the  advance  guard, 
commands:  1.  Form  advance  guard,  2.  MARCH.  The  com- 
mands are  repeated  by  the  captain  of  the  first  company,  who 
adds:  1.  Fonvard,  2.  MARCH,  in  time  to  move  his  entire  com- 
pany forward  as  advance  party  as  soon  as  the  point  has  gained 
its  proper  distance.  The  majt)r  commands:  1.  Forioard, 
2.  MARCH,  the  second  command  being  given  the  moment  the 
advance  party  has  gained  the  proper  distance.  The  major  then 
adds:  1.  Rear  four  (snch)  company  or  companies,  2.  Right  and 
left  oblique,  3.  Double  time,  4.  MARCH,  the  flankers  being 
taken  from  the  second,  fourth,  or  third  company,  or  from  all 
three  in  the  order  mentioned,  according  to  the  number  of  groups 
required  on  each  flank.  When  the  support  has  gained  the 
proper  distance,  the  major  of  the  second  battalion  moves  the 
reserve  forward.  The  major  commanding  the  reserve  should 
ordinarily  be  the  senior,  as  the  commander  of  the  advance 
gTiard  is  habitually  with  the  reserve. 

To  assemble  the  advance  guard,  the  reserve  is  halted,  and 


130  CATECniSM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

the  other  parts  of  the  advance  guard  at  once  halt.  The  coui- 
mand  is  then  given:  1.  Assemble,  2.  MARCH,  or  the  com- 
mander gives  the  signal  of  assembly  as  prescribed  in  the  drill 
regulatiQns.  The  command  is  repeated  by  the  commander  of 
the  vanguard,  and  then  by  the  commander  of  the  advance 
party.  At  the  command  Marcli,  the  point,  flankers,  and 
connecting  files  move  on  the  shortest  lines  to  the  body  from 
Avhich  they  were  sent  out,  and  take  their  places  in  the  column. 
The  detached  men  having  thus  rejoined,  the  advance  party 
marches  back  and  joins  the  support,  and  the  united  bodies  then 
march  back  and  join  the  reserve.  Should  the  advance  party  or 
support  not  be  in  column  of  fours,  such  column  should  be 
formed  before  its  commander  gives  the  order  for  assembling. 

If  it  is  desired  to  assemble  on  the  advance  party,  the  com- 
mand is:  1.  Assemhlc  on  the  advance  party,  2.  MARCH.  The  com-^ 
mand  is  executed  as  prescribed  above,  except  that  the  advance 
party  remains  halted,  and  the  support  and  reserve  move  for- 
ward and  close  upon  it. 

The  assembly  may  be  similarly  made  on  the  support  by  the 
command:  1.  Assemble  on  the  support,  2.  MARCH.  In  this  case 
the  assembly  is  made  as  prescribed  above,  except  that  tlie  ad- 
vance party  marches  back,  and  the  reserve  moves  forward  to 
join  the  support.  In  all  cases  the  assembly  may  be  made  either 
at  quick  time  or  double  time.  The  rear  guard  is  formed  as  an 
advance  guard,  and  immediately  faced  to  the  rear. 

Advance  Guard  Drill — Cavalry. 

The  troop  being  in  column  of  fours,  the  captain  commands: 
1.  Form  advance  guard,  2.  MARCH.  At  the  first  command,  the 
commander  of  the  first  platoon  takes  command  of  the  vanguard, 
and  the  guidon  sergeant  takes  position  abreast  of  the  leading 


CATECHISM  OF  OUTPOST  DUTY.  131 

four  of  the  reserve.  At  the  command  March,  the  first  four, 
under  the  command  of  the  right  principal  guide,  moves  forward 
at  a  trot,  constituting  the  point.  The  second  and  third  foui's 
oblique  to  the  right  and  left,  respectively,  at  a  trot,  until  they 
are  about  300  yards  from  the  line  of  march,  and  then  move 
forward  until  they  are  on  a  line  about  100  yards  in  rear  of  the 
point,  increasing  their  pace,  if  necessary,  in  moving  forward  to 
their  position.  The  right  principal  guide  is  the  commander  of 
the  advance  party,  and  regulates  the  movements  of  the  pout 
and  flanking  groups. 

When  the  point  has  gained  a  distance  of  600  yards,  the 
commander  of  the  vanguard  moves  the  support  forward  at  a 
walk,  and  the  advance  party  (consisting  of  the  point  and  flank- 
ing groups)  at  once  takes  the  same  pace.  The  commander  of  the 
vanguard,  as  soon  as  he  has  put  the  support  in  motion,  detaches 
two  flanking  groups  from  the  last  three  fours.  These  patrols, 
which  are  always  under  a  non-commissioned  oflicer,  march,  one 
on  each  flank,  about  half  a  mile  from  the  column  and  slightljv 
in  advance  of  the  reserve.  As  one  flank  is  generally  more  ex- 
posed than  the  other,  the  pati'ol  on  the  dangerous  flank  would 
consist  of  eight  and  the  other  of  fom'  men.  If  both  flanks 
appear  to  be  equally  exposed,  each  patrol  should  consist  of  six 
men,  but  it  is  not  otherwise  advisable  to  break  up  the  unity  of  a 
four.  These  patrols  move  to  their  positions  at  a  trot,  and  take 
such  formation  as  circumstances  may  require. 

When  the  support  has  advanced  about  700  yards,  the  cap- 
tain moves  the  reserve  forward.  When  flanking  groups  are 
thrown  out  from  the  reserve,  they  should  be  taken  from  the  rear 
fours. 

If  the  command  is:  1.  Fofvn  advance  guard.  2.  Trot, 
3.  MARCH,  the  advance  guard  is  formed  as  above  described, 
except  that  the  point  and  flankers  move  to  their  positions  at  a 


132  CATECHISM   OF  OUTPOST  DUTY. 

gallop,  and  the  support  and  reserve  move  forward  at  a  trot.  As 
soon  as  the  support  moves  forward,  the  advance  party  comes 
down  to  a  trot.  The  entire  advance  guard  continues  to  move 
at  a  t 'ot  until  the  pace  of  the  reserve  is  either  incavased  or 
reduced,  when  the  other  parts  at  once  conform  thereto.  Unless 
orders  be  given  to  the  conti*ary,  the  reserve  always  regulates 
the  pace  of  the  advance  guard. 

If  the  command  is:  1.  Form  advance  guard,  2.  Gallop, 
3.  MARCH,  the  advance  guard  is  formed  as  in  the  last  case, 
except  that  the  advance  party  continues  the  gallop  and  the 
other  bodies  move  out  successively  at  the  same  pace.  The 
cavnlry  should  be  habitually  drilled  in  forming  advan  e  guard 
at  a  gallop. 

If  tlie  troop  is  left  in  front,  the  advance  party  is  commanded 
by  tlie  left  principal  guide,  and  the  vanguard  by  the  coire 
sponding  platoon  commander. 

The  above  method  of  forming  an  advance  guard  will  an- 
swer in  the  case  of  a  troop  of  60  men  or  more.  If  the  troop 
numbers  only  60  men,  it  should  be  divided  into  thre^  platoons. 
If  the  troop  is  small,  the  point  will  be  taken  fi-om  the  first  four, 
and  the  flankers  of  the  advance  party  may  be  reduced  to  two  ou 
each  flank,  both  taken  from  the  second  four.  The  flanking 
patrols  sent  out  from  the  support  may  be  reduced  to  four  men 
each.  When  the  troop  is  very  small,  and  (as  is  usually  the 
case)  the  country  is  such  that  these  patrols  can  not  be  dispense  1 
with,  it  will  not  be  able  to  furnish  the  entire  advance  guar.l,  the 
whole  strength  being  required  for  the  advance  party  and  srppoit. 

An  advance  guard  consisting  of  more  than  one  troop  is 
formed  by  similar  commands  and  means. 

The  assembly  is  executed  as  in  the  case  of  infantry.  It  may 
bo  made  at  a  walk,  trot,  or  gallop. 


THE  SERVICE 

OF 

Security  ^Information 

By  Arthur  L.  Wagner, 

Captain  6th  Infantry,  U   S.  Armj^;   Instructor  in  the  Art  of  War  at  the  U.  S. 
Infantry  and  Cavalry  School,  Fort  Leavenworth,  Kansas. 


CONTENTS. 
Chapter     I. — Introduction.         Appendix     I. — Spies. 
Chapter   II. — Advance  Guards.  Appendix   II. —  Orientation  and 
Chapter  III. — Outposts.  Map  Reading. 

Chapter  IV. — Reconnaissance.  Appendix  III. — Indian  Scouting. 
Chapter  V. — The  Cavalry  Appendix  IV. — Questions  for 

Screen.  General  Review- 

Chapter  VI  —Rear  Guards.  Illustrated  with  Fifteen  Plates. 

THIS  BOOK  has  been   officially  adopted  by  the  War  Department  as  a 
standard  in  the  examination  of  officers  of  the  Regular  Army  for  pro- 
motion.    It  has  also  been  officially  adopted  as  a  text  book  in 

The  U.  S.  ARTILLERY  SCHOOL,  Fort  Monroe. 

The  U.  S.  INFANTRY  and  CAVALRY  SCHOOL,  Ft.  Leavenworth. 

The  U.  S.  CAVALRY  and  LIGHT  ARTILLERY  SCHOOL,  Ft.  Riley. 


NOTICES  OF  THE  PRESS. 

"Should  be  in  the  hands  of  every  one  desiring  to  know  his  profes- 
sion."— Army  and  Navy  Journal. 

"Full  of  suggestions  valuable  to  even  an  experienced  officer,  and  inval- 
uable to  one  for  the  first  time  called  to  a  position  of  danger  and  immediate 
exercise  of  judgment." — Artny  and  Navy  Register. 

"A  practical  and  common-sense  view  of  the  subject  worthy  of  adoption 
in  our  service." — Broad  Arrow,  London. 

"This  volume  ought  to  meet  with  a  hearty  welcome  from  all  arms  of 
the  service." ^Journal  of  the  Military  Service  Institution. 

"It  should  be  a  matter  of  pride  to  all  officers  to  have  an  authorizea 
American  work  of  such  excellence  on  this  s\ih}eci."— Journal  of  the  U.  S. 
Cavalry  Association. 

12mo,  265  Pages,  -  ■  Price,  $1.50. 

Sent  postpaid  on  receipt  of  price  by 

HUDSON-KIMBERLY  PUBLISHING  CO., 

101 4- 1016  Wyandotte  St.,  Kansas  City,  Mo. 


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